Safaricom has launched a managed software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN) service designed to help businesses maintain reliable connectivity across multiple branches, with monthly packages starting at KES 9,500 per branch on a 36-month contract.
The service combines network equipment, software, maintenance and 24-hour support into a monthly package, allowing businesses to connect multiple locations without paying for hardware upfront. It targets organisations operating across branches, depots, clinics and other distributed sites where network outages can interrupt payments, customer service, inventory management and dispatch operations.
SD-WAN combines existing connections, including fibre, 4G, 5G, broadband, dedicated internet access and multiprotocol label switching (MPLS), into a centrally managed network. If one connection fails, traffic can automatically switch to a backup link, helping keep critical business systems operational.
The service also balances traffic across available connections, prioritises business-critical applications such as video calls and customer payments, and includes security filtering and threat protection at each site. Businesses can monitor site connectivity and performance through a central dashboard, while Safaricom engineers provide round-the-clock support.
Safaricom offers three packages: Basic Plus, Standard Plus and Advanced Plus. On a 36-month contract, Basic Plus costs KES 9,500 per branch per month, while Standard Plus costs KES 14,100 per branch per month. Advanced Plus headquarters packages start at KES 67,100 per month. Pricing varies according to the package, contract duration and network requirements.
Longer contracts offer lower monthly costs. A Basic Plus branch, for example, costs KES 19,800 per month on a 12-month contract compared with KES 9,500 on a 36-month term. The SD-WAN service fee is separate from connectivity charges.
The service is intended for medium-sized businesses with distributed operations, including banks, retailers, distributors, manufacturers and clinic chains. Through its Ready Mobility offering, businesses can also establish new branches using 4G or 5G where coverage allows, then add fibre as their needs grow.
Businesses can retain existing connections, including those provided by other operators. Safaricom says the service is designed to help organisations manage network performance centrally, reduce the impact of outages and expand their operations with more predictable costs.
