Sonatel, the leading Senegalese telecoms company operating under the Orange brand, announced the launch of its 5G mobile services on Saturday, June 8th.
The company promises subscribers “instantaneous download and streaming speeds, as well as increased responsiveness for real-time applications such as online gaming, virtual reality, telemedicine, e-education, and more.”
Network Coverage and Expansion
To access the service, Sonatel subscribers will need 5G-compatible devices and be located within the coverage areas.
Currently, Sonatel’s 5G network covers the cities of Dakar, Thiès, Saint-Louis, Diourbel, Kaolack, and Louga, with 176 sites deployed.
The company plans to extend 5G coverage to the entire Dakar region by the end of 2024.
Sonatel’s 5G Journey
Sonatel initially announced the launch of 5G services in Senegal in March 2023, around the same time as its competitor Saga Africa Holding Limited (Free).
However, Sonatel initially offered limited fixed 5G for residential and business customers. On May 21st, CEO Sékou Dramé announced the commercial launch of 5G mobile services for June 1st.
The launch of Sonatel’s 5G mobile services aims to democratize access to the technology in the Senegalese telecoms market dominated by mobile consumers.
This move should also strengthen Sonatel’s leading market position, particularly in the internet segment. The company claims to be the “first 5G operator in Senegal and currently the only one offering 5G services.”
Market Share and Future Growth
According to data from the Regulatory Authority for Telecommunications and Posts (ARTP), Sonatel held a 65.2% share of the internet market, with 19.8 million subscribers as of December 31, 2023.
In the mobile telephony market, the operator had 12.6 million subscribers, representing a 56.4% market share. With the introduction of 5G mobile services, Sonatel is well-positioned for continued growth and innovation in the Senegalese telecommunications landscape.