Safaricom has launched a payment scheme in partnership with Google that lets its Kenyan customers pay for 4G-enabled phones in installments.
The aim of the partnership is to increase smartphone usage on the Safaricom network.
The company said back in April that it would partner with Google to offer one million affordable smartphones, with customers paying as little as 20 shillings ($0.19) a day over a nine-month period, with the ultimate aim of switching about 4 million 2G and 3G phones to 4G.
Safaricom Chief Executive Officer Peter Ndegwa said in several tweets: “The mobile phone has proved to be a powerful tool for social and economic development. It has opened numerous opportunities for businesses to deliver more innovative digital products and services #LipaMdogoMdogo.
“Today I am pleased to announce the launch of #LipaMdogoMdogo which will help close the digital divide & deepen internet penetration, driving economic benefits where they are needed most.
“Through smartphone device financing, we plan on ensuring that every Kenyan can use a 4G device for the first time without putting a dent on their wallets. Tune in for more details on #LipaMdogoMdogo.”
He said the phone, which costs 5,999 shillings ($55.75), can be bought with a 1,000 shilling down payment, thereafter followed by a 20 shilling daily payment until the phone is paid for.
