Nairobi — Kenya's mobile market continued to expand in the three months to September, with active SIM subscriptions rising 2.1 per cent to 78.3 million.

The latest figures from the Communicatioms Authority of Kenya (CA) point to sustained growth in the sector, supported by wider network rollout, increased device ownership, and the country's deepening reliance on mobile-driven digital services.

"Mobile (SIM) subscriptions grew by 2.1 per cent to 78.3 million, marking a penetration rate of 149.4 per cent."

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"The growth is mainly attributed to the continued expansion of mobile networks and ever-growing demand for mobile services."

The CA data shows that the uptick extends a trend observed in previous reporting periods.

In the quarter ending March 2025, subscriptions stood at about 76.7 million, while a year earlier September 2024 the figure was 70 million, reflecting consistent double-digit annual growth.

The penetration rate of 149.4 per cent indicates that many Kenyans now maintain more than one active SIM card, a pattern common in competitive mobile markets.

Prepaid lines continued to dominate, accounting for 98 per cent of all subscriptions, compared to just 2 per cent for postpaid, underscoring the price-sensitive nature of mobile consumers.

As operators continue network upgrades and expand 4G and 5G coverage, sector watchers expect subscription numbers to maintain their upward trajectory in the coming quarters.