Via Semafor, a report on continued upgrades to Somalia’s telecommunications sector:

Hormuud Telecom, Somalia’s largest telecommunications provider, has rolled out its 5G network in the country. The network will be accessible in Mogadishu, Kismayo, and several other major centers across the country, including Galkayo, Baidoa and Dhobley.

Somalia’s telecommunications minister, Jama Hassan Khalif, described the launch as a “critical milestone” for Somalia. With Somalia’s economy battered from decades of conflict and ongoing security concerns, the rollout of the 5G network is seen as an important step in efforts to rebuild its economy.

Hormuud becomes the second telco to unveil 5G in the country, following Somtel, which launched its 5G network in January. Approximately 70% of Somalia’s population is already covered by 4G, and data consumption has been rising in the country. Hormuud says its average data user consumes five gigabytes of data monthly, up from a national average of between one and two GB two years ago.

The company, which had a 39% market share in the third quarter of 2023, according to data from global analytic firm Omdia, said its existing infrastructure would enable it to make the 5G network instantly available to users.

Hormuud and Somalia’s government are counting on enhanced connectivity to accelerate economic growth in the country by enabling improved access to digital tools and information. The country has some of the lowest mobile data prices on the continent.