By Musa Mbogo
In a move aimed at increasing smartphone access across the country, Airtel Uganda has teamed up with Mogo Uganda and Transsion to launch an innovative smartphone loan initiative.
The partnership seeks to make smartphones more affordable by offering financing options for selected devices, enabling Ugandans to acquire brand-new smartphones from leading brands such as Tecno, Infinix, and Itel through a simple and affordable payment plan.
The initiative was officially unveiled at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Kampala on Thursday. Speaking at the launch, Airtel Uganda Managing Director Soumendra Sahu revealed that customers will only be required to pay a 28% deposit of the device’s cost to receive it instantly on loan.
“Smartphones have become part of everyone’s life, and driving their penetration is meant to serve a greater purpose,” said Sahu. “In today’s environment, the smartphone is a gateway to opportunities, a bridge to education, a platform for innovation, and above all, a tool for economic empowerment.”
He emphasized that the initiative is part of Airtel’s strategy to democratize access to digital tools and strengthen digital and financial inclusion across the country.
Japhet Aritho, Managing Director of Airtel Mobile Commerce Uganda Limited, highlighted the role of Airtel Money in the program, noting that customers will be able to repay their loans conveniently using mobile wallets.
“You only need to have money on your wallet, and you will be able to make that payment easily,” Aritho said. “This is why we won’t stop such partnerships until everyone is financially included.”
Sahu added that financial inclusion goes beyond money transfers and savings. “It is also about access to credit. What we are doing today is ensuring that every customer has that access, which can significantly change their lives.”
Wasswa Philip Calvin, the Special Manager at Transsion, echoed the partners’ shared goal, saying, “We are on a mission that Uganda will be a smartphone nation.”
Modestas Sudinius, CEO of Eleving Group, which is the parent company of Mogo Uganda, stressed that smartphones are no longer a luxury but a necessity, especially in a youthful and fast-growing market like Uganda.
“When you have access to a smartphone, you can be anywhere in the world. You gain access to the same information and technology,” he remarked.
He also pointed out the broader impact on national growth, that “Smartphone access will drive Uganda’s economic development faster than we anticipate.”
To participate in the program, customers can visit any Mogo Uganda retailer or select Airtel Service Centers with a National ID, select a smartphone, make the initial deposit, and walk away with their device in minutes.
Participants will also receive 3GB of free Airtel data each month for three months, enabling them to access essential digital services right away.
The initiative is projected to empower over 360,000 Ugandans annually, with benefits ranging from online learning for students, market price tracking for farmers, to business management tools for entrepreneurs. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
