Leading Telco Safaricom announced on Tuesday that they had partnered with Google to enable Kenyans currently not connected to the internet to finally own smartphones. A first in the world, Telco Safaricom will now give qualifying customers easier access to the internet through the Neon Ray Pro, a 4G Android (Go edition) smartphone.
The world first initiative dubbed Lipa Mdogo Mdogo in partnership with Android, Google's operating system for mobile, will allow qualifying customers access to the internet and the world of possibilities through a smartphone that they can pay-as-they-use on a daily or weekly basis.
"We are delighted today to launch this product in line with our pillar of customer-centricity. Today, everyone is going through tough economic times. This product comes as a testament to our commitment to our purpose of transforming lives. Smartphones in the hands of our customers, possess life-transforming possibilities. They open a new world. We aim to take that world into the hands of every consumer through affordable means," said Peter Ndegwa, Safaricom CEO.
"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 & social inclusion. We believe that this collaboration will bring more Kenyans online and help them take advantage of the opportunities that exist online," said Mariam Abdullahi, Director, Android and Platforms Partnerships for Africa
The project seeks to empower customers currently on 2G devices to upgrade and enjoy high-speed internet connectivity.
To participate, customers need to dial *544# and accept the terms and conditions to opt into the service, after which they will receive an SMS approval of their eligibility and the value of the device they can purchase under the service.
Eligibility of the financing plan will be based on customer credit score. The subscriber will need a history with Safaricom network going back at least one year and be between 18-75 years of age.
For more information on Lipa Mdogo Mdogo, customers are encouraged to dial *544# or call the customer care number 100 to get more details.
*Image: Courtesy
