Vodacom Lesotho this week officially launched a device financing scheme (Mohala ka Mokikatla), designed to make 4G smartphones more accessible and affordable for low-end customers.
The company says providing an opportunity for low-end customers to acquire high quality smartphones through manageable financing options does not just enhance access to devices, but also unlocks opportunities for communication and access to a wealth of information that can truly transform lives.
This initiative provides flexibility to pay in instalments over three, six, nine and 12 months, making it easier for individuals to embrace technology and enhance their daily experiences.
The executive Head of Sales and Distribution at Vodacom Lesotho, Palesa Kaloli, expounded on the importance of Mohala ka Mokitlane.
“For several years, we have been offering mobile phones at subsidised prizes. However, some Basotho still find it difficult to buy these phones outright. To meet them halfway, we are today announcing Mohala ka Mokitlane to allow them to purchase with easier payment options.
“The added advantage of this initiative is that all phones included in the scheme support 4G technology, ensuring fast and convenient internet access.
“Moreover, Mohala ka Mokitlane goes beyond merely providing affordable devices; it empowers students to access online learning materials, enables small businesses to promote their products and services online and helps ordinary Basotho to stay connected with friends and family,” Kaloli noted.
A representative of one of the partners, Onon Mobile, Andrew Mbeya, waxed lyrical about the envisaged impact of the scheme.
“Mohala ka Mokitlane provides customers who have limited resources the chance to experience meaningful life changes. By gaining access to the internet, they can unlock various opportunities, including online employment, marketing for their small to medium enterprises and content creation.
“Additionally, it facilitates improved communication with friends and family, access trading, shopping, and other valuable phone applications,” he said,
Echoing these sentiments, the director of Airvantage Mark Collie, emphasised that their company is thrilled to collaborate on initiatives like Mohala ka Mokitlane, which not only democratises access to technology but also catalyses economic development.
He said their commitment to delivering inclusive financial solutions is aligned with Vodacom’s effort to bridge the digital divide, enhancing the productivity and growth of enterprises by integrating their sophisticated technology solutions with Vodacom’s extensive network.
Vodacom Lesotho’s executive head of consumer business unit, Tšepo Thabisi, highlighted the broader implications of Mohala ka Mokitlana.
“As Vodacom Lesotho, we believe in the power of technology to change lives. Mohala ka Mokitlane is a means to fostering digital inclusion and using technology to change the lives of Basotho. Beyond mere connectivity, this scheme has the potential to drive economic growth and empower Basotho on their entrepreneurial journey. By leveraging mobile communication to expand customer reach.”
Thabisi also explained that as part of the scheme, customers receive daily integrated bundles comprising data, voice, and SMS throughout the payment term.
This additional benefit ensures that users can enjoy comprehensive connectivity without any interruptions or limitations.
The eligibility criteria for Mohala ka Mokitlana are centred on positive track record in the usage of Vodacom Lesotho services (data, voice, M-pesa, SMSes) across various categories.
Thabisi said interested customers can easily check their eligibility by simply dialing *111#, then choose option8 on their devises, making the process convenient and accessible to all.
The selection of phone models available under the scheme includes reliable and robust options such as Sechocha, Mobicel RXpro, Monicel F50, Kicka6Plus, Samsung A04s, Samsung A05 and Samsung A05s.
