Safaricom has launched a new initiative that will see Kenyans acquire 4G Smartphones for Ksh20 daily installments.
Chief Executive Peter Ndegwa who spoke during the release of the company’s 2019 financial results on Wednesday said the initiative is tailored at enabling 1 million more Kenyans to acquire 4G enabled phones in 2020.
The package is in partnership with Google and is based on insights and lessons drawn from the Maisha Ni Digital campaign that saw over 1 million customers acquire 4G powered devices.
“A smartphone device is critical in supporting the new realities brought about by COVID-19. This proposition aims to support Kenyans during and beyond this pandemic by enabling them access more opportunities, be it learning, working or running businesses from the comfort of their homes,” Ndegwa said.
Android and Platforms Partnerships for Africa C1 – Public director Mariama Abdullahi said Android’s mission is to make sure as many Kenyans as possible transition to the next phase of technology sustainably.
“Android’s goal has always been to bring the power of computing to everyone. Access to the opportunities the internet offers is critical for any nations’ economic growth and social inclusion. Majority of Kenyans and Africans at large access the internet via mobile broadband.” said Ms. Abdullahi.
According to Ms Abdullahi, in Kenya, approximately 60 percent of the mobile phone install base is still on 2G feature phones while 40 percent smartphones continue to be a hindrance to people getting online due to compatibility with technology features and data affordability.
“We believe that this collaboration with Safaricom will bring more Kenyans access and the means to partake in the opportunities that exist online,” said Ms Abdullah.
