Safaricom revamps Lipa Mdogo Mdogo with the introduction of new Neon Smartphones

6 September 2023

Over 1 million Kenyans have upgraded to 4G devices via Lipa Mdogo Mdogo since 2020

Nairobi, Kenya – 6th September 2023 … Safaricom (NSE: SCOM) has introduced two new neon smartphones to Lipa Mdogo Mdogo, as it continues to enable Kenyans access the internet and the world of possibilities through smartphones that they can pay-as-they-use on a daily or weekly basis.

The new smartphones include the Neon Smarta and the more advanced Neon Ultra, which offers a larger screen and enhanced camera performance. Both devices are available from as low as KES 50 daily at any Safaricom Shop or dealer outlet, or via *544# under option 8 – Lipa Mdogo Mdogo.

“We are keen to enable more Kenyans enjoy the transformative power of the internet by availing affordable 4G devices through Lipa Mdogo Mdogo, which has already empowered over 1 million Kenyans to upgrade from 2G featurephones. We also continue to invest in our network to provide our customers with the best connectivity across the country,” said Peter Ndegwa, CEO, Safaricom PLC.

As part of Safaricom’s move to be a digital lifestyle enabler, customers purchasing the two smartphones via Lipa Mdogo Mdogo will enjoy bundled data and minutes throughout the repayment period. The Neon Ultra will be bundled with 120MB and 5 minutes daily, while the Neon Smarta will be bundled with 100MB and 5 minutes daily.

Lipa Mdogo Mdogo is delivered in partnership with Android, Google's operating system for internet enabled devices. All smartphones on offer are loaded with a suite of Google Apps including search, maps, Gmail, and YouTube. They are designed to give users a great smartphone experience and empower them to access their favourite apps when on the move, to conduct business, get entertained and stay connected.

“Android’s goal has always been to democratise access by bringing the power of computing to everyone. The uptake of Lipa Mdogo Mdogo since its launch in 2020 is proof that affordability continues to be a key barrier of entry into the digital world. We are pleased to extend this partnership to enable more Safaricom users to take advantage of the opportunities that exist online,” said Mariam Abdullahi, Director, Android and Platforms Partnerships for Africa

The neon range is designed to offer an optimal combination of screen-size, battery capacity, storage, memory and camera at affordable prices while empowering users to enjoy the reliability and wide coverage of Safaricom’s 4G network. Over the years, they have become one of the most popular smartphones in Kenya.

Lipa Mdogo Mdogo was introduced in 2020 to spur 4G uptake in the country by upgrading customers on 2G featurephones to affordable 4G smartphones. Since then, Safaricom has partnered with manufacturers such as Transsion, Samsung and Nokia to include more smartphones on the Lipa Mdogo Mdogo.

Safaricom remains keen on bridging the digital divide, and through its Mwelekeo ni internet campaign, it provides affordable data bundles and 4G devices, while showcasing the transformative power of the internet.