by AKANI CHAUKE
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – MTN South Africa is to offer 4G smartphones to more than 1,2 million prepaid customers as part of efforts to extend digital inclusion.
These will be priced for R99 (US$5,40).
The initiative will be executed in three phases, commencing in May 2025 until the end of 2026.
In the first phase, 5 000 customers will be offered the smartphones. Selection will be based on usage profiles, spending patterns and tenure, and will mainly be in Gauteng province.
In the second phase, more than 130 000 customers nationally will be offered the devices. In the third phase, more than 1,1 million MTN customers across the country will benefit.
The devices will come preloaded with a variety of major applications designed to help customers access a wide range of digital tools and services.
They can only be used with an MTN SIM card.
“At MTN, we are committed to going the extra mile to ensure that no one is left behind in the digital era,” said MTN South Africa Chief Executive Officer, Charles Molapisi.
He added, “As the country transitions to technologies like 4G and 5G, it is vital that we take proactive steps to connect as many South Africans as possible.”
MTN has partnered with Smartphone For All Pty Limited for this initiative.
Babatunde Osho, Founder and CEO of Smartphone For All believes this marks a pivotal step in a journey to bridge the digital divide.
“By making smartphones more accessible and affordable, we are unlocking opportunities for millions who have been left behind in the digital economy,” Osho said.
– CAJ News