by SAVIOUS KWINIKA
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – FIRST National Bank (FNB) Connect has surpassed one million active subscribers, cementing its status as one of South Africa’s fastest-growing mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs).
The bank says the milestone reflects rising demand for affordable mobile services integrated with everyday banking.
FNB Connect, launched as part of FNB’s broader digital ecosystem, offers mobile data, voice, and device deals directly through the FNB app.
Customers can buy airtime and data, activate or manage SIM and eSIM profiles, access rewards, and purchase devices using cash, credit, or eBucks.
The service also includes free WhatsApp data, generous data rewards, and exclusive eSIM functionality that allows customers to onboard digitally without paperwork or losing their existing number.
CEO Sashin Sookroo says the platform has evolved beyond basic mobile services. “For many customers, FNB Connect is a way to save on data, earn rewards, and manage their mobile life inside the same app they already use to bank,” he says.
Between July 2024 and June 2025, FNB Connect customers used 26.2 petabytes of data, equivalent to roughly 11 million hours of HD video streaming.
Of this, more than 2.37 petabytes were consumed through free WhatsApp usage—one of the platform’s biggest drawcards.
The offering, Sookroo says, has helped people stay connected for job applications, community updates, and family communication without worrying about data depletion.
Rewards remain a major incentive. Customers collectively earned 290 million eBucks (around R29 million) on airtime purchases, while spending 190 million eBucks (R19 million) on airtime, data, and devices.
Over the year, FNB Connect distributed more than R4.5 billion in data rewards across its programmes.
The MVNO’s push into eSIM technology has also accelerated growth. Since launching a local eSIM in October 2024, FNB Connect has recorded 127% cumulative growth in eSIM sales.
eSIMs now represent 10% of all monthly SIM activations, while the Global Travel eSIM—offering roaming in over 200 destinations—continues to grow at 20% month-on-month.
Device sales remain strong, with over 64,000 credit and cash purchases valued at R635 million. FNB Connect now offers more than 400 device types, including refurbished options aimed at promoting affordability and sustainability.
Sookroo says the momentum underscores a broader shift: “Connectivity is no longer a luxury—it’s a lifeline. Our mission is to make it simpler, smarter, and more rewarding for every South African.”
– CAJ News