Safaricom Launches B-Live, Time-Based Data Bundles for Flexible Internet Use

Safaricom has unveiled B-Live, a new time-based data bundle that allows customers to browse the internet non-stop for a set duration, marking a significant shift in Kenya’s mobile data market.

With B-Live, customers can enjoy unlimited internet access for one hour at KES 20, three hours at KES 50, or six hours at KES 150. The innovation is designed to provide greater flexibility, catering to diverse user needs ranging from students attending online classes, to content creators streaming and uploading videos, to professionals working remotely.

Unlike traditional bundles that are charged by megabytes (MB) or gigabytes (GB), the new model charges users based on time spent online. However, Safaricom has clarified that the new option will not replace existing MB/GB bundles, but will instead expand choices available to customers.

Safaricom’s Chief Consumer Business Officer, Fawzia Ali-Kimanthi, said the move reflects the company’s commitment to putting customers in control of their internet use. “We recognise that our customers are different. Some prefer managing their usage in MBs or GBs, while others simply want to enjoy the internet for a set period of time. By adding this option, we’re putting control back in the hands of our customers and enabling them to focus on what matters most — whether that’s learning, creating, connecting, or hustling,” she stated.

B-Live is positioned as part of Safaricom’s broader ambition to enable Kenya’s digital lifestyle, empowering youth, entrepreneurs, and everyday hustlers with more affordable and flexible connectivity options. The bundles are accessible through *544# or *555#.

As the leading telecommunications provider in East Africa, Safaricom currently connects over 49 million customers and plays a central role in the economy, with its total economic value estimated at KES 562 billion in the year ending March 2024.

The introduction of B-Live is expected to reshape customer behavior in the internet market, with heavy users such as streamers and downloaders likely to benefit most, while lighter users may need to evaluate which bundle type best suits their needs.