A new mobile numbering prefix has been released by the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA). The newly released prefix which takes effect immediately is 01xxxxxxxx, with the commonly used 07xxxxxxxx having dominated the mobile communication sector for years. Speaking to the press, CA Director General Francis Wangusi said the move to release the new series of numbers has come about due to increased demand for SIM cards, mobile data, and machine to machine communications, coupled with new tech requiring telecommunication numbers.
He said the introduction of the new prefix is in line with the National Numbering Plan developed in 2009 by the Authority in consultation with ICT sector operators and other stakeholders. “The plan provides for all existing and emerging services like Internet of Things, Machine-to-Machine communications services,” he added.
He revealed that Safaricom and Airtel have already been issued with 2 million and 3 million numbers respectively under the prefix and that new subscriber numbers will now be available under the 01xxxxxxxx prefix. Wangusi has urged customers to be aware of the new number prefix so that they understand the numbers under the prefix are local numbers.
The introduction of the new series of the prefix will have no costs to the consumer and will encourage more investment and innovations in the sector according to the CA Director General, “Particularly with the proliferation of new technologies that are widening the horizon for new and innovative services,” he noted.