Introduction
One of the first things newcomers ask upon arriving in Kenya is: “How do I get connected?” Reliable mobile service and internet are essential for staying in touch with family, working remotely, banking, and navigating daily life.
Here’s a simple guide to setting up your SIM card, mobile money, and internet access in Kenya.
1. Main Mobile Providers
Kenya has three licensed operators:
- Safaricom – Largest network, wide coverage, known for M-Pesa mobile money.
- Airtel Kenya – Competitive pricing, good in cities.
- Telkom Kenya – Affordable bundles, growing network.
2. Registering a SIM Card
- You need a passport or Kenyan ID.
- SIM registration is done at the provider’s shop or authorized agent.
- Biometric verification may be required (fingerprints or photo ID).
3. Internet Options
- Mobile Data Bundles: Purchase prepaid bundles via USSD codes or apps.
- Home Internet (Wi-Fi): Safaricom Home Fibre, Zuku, or Telkom 4G routers.
- Business Internet: Dedicated corporate packages are available for offices.
4. Mobile Money (Essential!)
- M-Pesa (Safaricom), Airtel Money, and T-Kash (Telkom) allow you to:
- Pay bills.
- Buy goods/services.
- Transfer money locally.
- Receive international remittances.
Mobile money is integral to life in Kenya — most people use it daily.
Conclusion
Getting connected in Kenya is simple once you know the steps. Start with a SIM card, register mobile money, and then choose a reliable internet option that suits your needs.
At ORKA, we partner with leading providers like Telkom Kenya to ensure newcomers stay connected from day one.