5G network has no link to Covid-19 says PS – KBC

Claims linking 5G network to Coronavirus are unfounded says Principal Secretary for ICT and Innovation Jerome Ochieng.

The PS says there is no scientific data linking the deadly virus to deployment of fifth -generation mobile technology.

In an exclusive interview with Kenya Broadcasting Corporation(KBC) reporter Regina Manyara Gitau, the PS added that Kenya has begun 5G trials in the 2.6 and 3.5 GHz frequency bands.

Despite the backing to revitalize telecommunications on a global scale, theories have emerged linking 5G roll out to the deadly coronavirus  pandemic.

Some theorists’ claim that 5G damages the immune system, leaving affected individuals highly exposed to the disease while others claim that 5G mobile networks are being deployed in high frequency bands of up to 60 GHz, thus causing ionization of the oxygen molecules in the air.

The PS revealed that plans are at an advanced stage to deploy 5G network in the country, with trials already underway in the 2.6 and 3.5 GHz frequency bands.

The roll out of 5G will provide higher speeds and better connectivity, mitigating the concerns of individuals who avoid transacting on their phones due to slow connections.

In  the coming weeks the country is to attain 100 percent internet connectivity through the Google Loon–Telcom project.

Once deployed Kenya will become the fourth African country to launch 5G networks using Huawei’s technology, following South Africa, Egypt and Uganda.