According to the 2024 Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) Market Report for June, Uganda’s internet use is increasing as 16.7 million users own smartphones. With this statistic, it is evident that more Ugandans will continue to actively seek access to smartphones and are interested in using the Internet for business and personal use.

Ali Balunywa, Director of Sales and Distribution, Airtel Uganda in his remarks said their continuous collaboration with industry players such as ZTE Corporation ensures that their customers enjoy products and services they can leverage to develop themselves. He further told the press that a smartphone and good internet connection in this era can offer endless opportunities such as starting an online business, studying online, researching, socializing, and entertainment, to mention but a few.

Balunywa added, “The youth today are heavy users of the internet, therefore, offering avenues for affordable smartphones such as this partnership with ZTE Corporation opens access for those with limited funds to opportunities that they can use to generate sustainable income.”

For this partnership, Airtel and ZTE launched the ZTE Nubia smartphone in Uganda —and it comes with 15GB of free Airtel data valid for 3 months and discounted data plans for ZTE Nubia users who pay through Airtel Money. Priced at UGX400,000, the ZTE Nubia features a dual 3.5mm earphone jack, a 500mAh battery that supports fast charging, a rear AI camera backed with 50 MAF, 5 MFF for the front camera, wireless FM Radio, and 4G connectivity for a seamless experience

The ZTE Nubia is available countrywide in all authorized Airtel Uganda service shops and mobile dealers.

Micheal Xue, CEO of ZTE Devices Uganda expressed his excitement for the ZTE Nubia launch in Uganda citing that the brand is present in 20 African countries and will continue to expand its presence across Africa. “We have already launched the ZTE Nubia in 20 African countries including Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and Kenya, among others and next year we will put more products into the African market,” said Xue.

Xue said they hope to have more partnerships with other players in Uganda to better serve the citizens. “We have partnered with Airtel Uganda and in the future, we will have more partners we can do business with,” Xue told the press.

The ZTE Nubia Smartphone series seeks to revolutionize the smartphone experience, especially for users who subscribe to the Airtel Uganda network with subsidized data packages and 4G coverage.

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Airtel Money’s Head of Operations, Ms. Hope Ekudu shared that the partnership will further promote digital financial inclusion in Uganda. “Airtel Money has always been committed to delivering innovative, secure, and borderless financial services to our customers,” she said. “Through this partnership, our customers can now make cashless transactions for fuel purchases and access other services at Stabex fuel stations across the country using their mobile wallets.”

Ekudu revealed that customers who pay with Airtel Money will be entered in a draw for a chance to win exciting prizes including a brand-new Toyota RAV4 Hybrid SUV, motorbikes, and e-money. The draw is part of Airtel’s ongoing nationwide Vroomula Amajja campaign.

According to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) 2024 Quarter 2 report, mobile money transactions have risen to 1.84 billion, up from 1.72 billion in the previous quarter. This growth underscores Airtel Money’s ongoing efforts to promote cashless transactions by encouraging Ugandans to use their mobile wallets for a variety of services, including sending money, depositing or withdrawing cash, mobile banking, bill payments, Airtel Money Pay, international money transfers, airtime purchases, and fuel payments.

Justus Kiptoo, General Manager of Stabex International said the growth in mobile money transactions has inspired them to partner with Airtel Mobile Commerce Uganda to simplify fuel purchases and other services for their customers.

“At Stabex, we are always seeking ways to provide our customers with greater convenience and value,” said Kiptoo. “We believe this collaboration will encourage more Ugandans to embrace cashless payments, making transactions faster and more secure.”

This partnership is an addition to the other initiatives Airtel Money has undertaken to promote cashless transactions and highlights the ongoing Vroomula Amajja campaign that is changing the lives of Ugandans. Over 2,000 Airtel Money users have been rewarded with various prizes, including 52 motorbikes worth UGX200 million and daily cash rewards for cashless transactions.

“With the focus on giving Ugandans instant, secure, and borderless, our efforts are not only changing how Ugandans transact; we’re changing lives. We’re fueling dreams, powering ambitions, and driving the nation towards a cashless future where every transaction opens a world of possibilities,” said Ekudu.

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“We have partnered with Sasai Money Transfer on their innovative initiative that aligns with our agenda of ensuring financial inclusivity for all Ugandans,” said Mr. Japhet Aritho, Managing Director of Airtel Mobile Commerce Uganda Limited. “This offer brings even more value to our customers, coinciding with our big consumer promotion, Vroomula Amajja, which offers customers a chance to win daily cash prizes, weekly Boda-Boda prizes, and a Toyota Rav4 Hybrid by simply receiving remittances into their Airtel Money wallet.”

Sasai Fintech CEO, Mr. Darlington Mandivenga said the partnership with Airtel Money Uganda offers an important avenue into one of Africa’s largest remittance markets.

“As Sasai, this is where we want to be, ensuring we reach as many people as possible and ultimately leave no African behind,” Mandivenga said in a press statement —adding “We are in a competitively unique position where we have been able to utilize our source market assets, operational efficiencies, and group synergies while collaborating with like-minded partners such as Airtel Money to deliver innovative offerings.”

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This innovative offering eliminates remittance sending fees for users of the Sasai Money Transfer service in the United Kingdom and South Africa sending money to family, friends, business partners, etc in Uganda. The partnership with Airtel Money Uganda ensures that the recipient also enjoys similar benefits by cashing out their funds for free from their Airtel Money wallet. Overall, this end-to-end customer proposition offers unique benefits of improved access and affordability to both the sender and receiver.

The current reality in the African context is that informal remittances are still prevalent exceeding the volume of formal remittances flowing through official channels. This high level of informality presents a challenge for African migrants many of whom end up losing their hard-earned money to unscrupulous intermediaries. In line with the vision of a digitally connected future that leaves no African behind, Sasai is leading the charge of digitizing and formalizing remittances and making the services more accessible and affordable for all Africans. The goal is to close the gap between formal and informal money transfers and ensure that no one is excluded from these essential services.

The zero fees initiative by Sasai marks another first in the remittances industry, where a money transfer operator has effectively collaborated with mobile money operators to focus on a single goal: making money transfer services more affordable. In an industry where fees can be as high as 13%, the zero fees initiative holds enormous long-term potential to contribute to the formalization of international money transfers, the bulk of which still flow through unsafe and unreliable informal channels.

See also: OP-ED: mobile money taxation could hamper financial inclusion gains in Africa

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We set a footprint in West Nile on December 27, 2004. Airtel has been a steadfast partner in the region’s progress. With a robust network of over 120 sites, all 4G capable, and a presence in most corners of the region through our 7 service centers. We have laid the necessary financial, and technical foundation for broadening and deepening the region’s digital economy and gateway to the world.

Our network of over 4,000 agents offers the necessary distribution channel and jobs that impact the lives of many and ease business in the region that trades with neighboring the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and South Sudan.

Similar to your 33kV busbar, we have infrastructure ready for business internet connections to DRC and South Sudan, as well as Vura, Moyo, and other border points. We invest ahead of time.

UETCL’s provision of stable electricity will greatly transform how we operate by delivering grid energy to support our de-carbonization agenda. It will illuminate homes and businesses and also catalyze economic growth.

With reliable power, Airtel can expand its network capacity, enhancing data speeds and coverage, thereby creating new opportunities for individuals and businesses alike. With a stable power supply, West Nile Rural Electrification Company (WENRECo), our partners in the region, will unlock businesses. More jobs will be created enabling more people to access essential services like money transfers, bill payments, and savings through Airtel Money. Additionally, we can connect schools, healthcare facilities, and businesses to the digital world, opening up new avenues for education, healthcare, agriculture, and trade.

Furthermore, the expansion of our networks will create sustainable jobs in the distribution channels of our franchise partners and agents. This will contribute to the region’s economic growth and empower local communities.

To secure the power supply that you are delivering to the region, Airtel Uganda has demonstrable capability in condition and control monitoring of grid assets like sensors, power transformers, switch gear, and related primary plants at a substation. Together, we are not just connecting a region; we are powering dreams and illuminating futures. We envision a West Nile where technology and infrastructure converge to create a thriving, interconnected, and prosperous community.

See also: Airtel Africa reports 12% mobile data revenue growth in East Africa

Editor’s Note: The article was written and presented to PC Tech Magazine by David Birungi, Public Relations Manager at Airtel Uganda.

The post OP-ED: UETCL’s West Nile Expansion, a Catalyst for Airtel’s Digital and Economic Progress appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

The telco attributed the growth to its significant expansion into the East African mobile data market. The region comprises six countries including Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia.

At the Airtel Africa group level, data usage per customer surged by 25.1% to 6.2 GB, generating USD$409 million (approx. UGX1.5 trillion). East Africa contributed significantly to this performance, with a 14.6% increase in data customers and a 7.1% rise in data Average Revenue Per User (ARPU), resulting in USD$170 million (approx. UGX632.4 billion) in regional revenue.

Strategic investments in network expansion and enhancement fueled these achievements.

Overall, East Africa mobile services revenue grew by 6.5% to $423 million, driven by a 12.4% increase in voice revenue and a 25.7% increase in data revenue & growth in other revenue streams. Additionally, the mobile money business thrived, with revenue soaring 31.7% to US$167 million (approx. UGX621.2 billion) compared to US$155 million (approx. UGX576.6 billion) in the same period last year. The Airtel Money network processed over USD$120 billion (approx. UGX446.4 trillion) in annualized transaction value and mobile money revenue contributed 19.2% of total Group revenue, up from 14.6% in the previous quarter.

Commenting on the performance, Airtel Africa’s CEO, Sunil Taldar said “A strong capital structure is critical to enabling our ambitions and future-proofing our ambitious growth targets. The growth opportunity across our markets remains compelling and we continue to focus on margin improvement as indicated in our FY’24 results.”

Sunil added “Having visited most of our OpCos since I joined Airtel Africa, I am encouraged by the scale of the opportunity available across our markets in both the GSM and mobile money business.” “A key priority for us is to look for new opportunities to further grow our business, especially in the enterprise, fibre, and data centre businesses across our footprint in Africa.”

The post Airtel Africa Reports 12% Mobile Data Revenue Growth in East Africa appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

The app’s popularity is further underscored by the fact that it has amassed over 3 million downloads, indicating a strong brand awareness and potential for even greater user adoption. While there is a gap between downloads and active users, it’s a positive sign nonetheless.

Daniel Odaka, the Airtel Uganda Digital Channels Manager, said “We are happy to see the numbers growing on the MyAirtel App, which reveals that customers are now confident in transacting using our app.” He adds “The growth also highlights the ease and convenience of transacting using the Airtel network reducing the need to bank visits, shops, or rely on USSD codes.”

Odaka revealed that the telco strives to make the app a better platform that caters to its customers’ needs. “We want our customers to feel like they have a direct lifeline to Airtel in the palm of their hands,” he said. “The app streamlines everyday transactions and empowers Ugandans to take control of their finances and digital life.”

A testimonial from Racken Kobusingye, an Airtel Uganda customer and MyAirtel App user, said “The MyAirtel app makes it easy for me to send money to a person and a bank account.” “Immediately you place in someone’s name, it confirms and you don’t need to go through the long process.” He adds “I also love the freebies you get when you spin the wheel.”

The success of the MyAirtel App highlights the expanding digital landscape in Uganda. According to the Datareportal, Digital 2024 Report, there are over 13.3 million internet users, representing roughly 27% of the population, which indicates a shift toward digital solutions. Moreover, mobile phone penetration is even higher at nearly 68%, indicating a strong mobile-first approach.

With the growth of internet use and mobile phone penetration, new ways of accessing various essential services are becoming available. This signifies a future where digital platforms will play an even more prominent role in Uganda’s economy. As internet penetration continues to rise, Uganda can expect a surge in mobile app usage across various sectors, further streamlining daily activities and driving financial inclusion.

Airtel Uganda’s commitment to user experience goes beyond just convenience. The recent launch of the Data Usage Manager feature within the MyAirtel App empowers users to track their data usage. This valuable tool allows Ugandans to understand how different applications consume data, enabling them to optimize their mobile data plans and avoid unexpected depletion.

SEE ALSO: AIRTEL UNVEILS A SOLUTION TO ALLOW ITS CUSTOMERS TO MONITOR THEIR DATA USAGE EFFECTIVELY

Furthermore, the app offers exciting rewards like free data and minutes for completing various games within the app. This not only adds a fun element but also incentivizes user engagement.

“MyAirtel App serves as a prime example of how digital solutions can empower Ugandans and pave the way for a more convenient and interconnected future,” said Odaka. “The app’s focus on user experience, with features like data usage management and rewards, reflects Airtel Uganda’s commitment to innovation and responsible digital participation.”

ALSO READ: TAYEBWA: CANALBOX ENTRY IN UGANDA IS A VOTE OF CONFIDENCE IN THE GOVERNMENT

The post MyAirtel App Has Hit 500,000 Monthly Active Users appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Airtel Uganda’s Managing Director, Mr. Manoj Murali said they were pleased to be independently recognized by ISO for their demonstrated commitment to delivering world-class practices in information systems security management. “The ISO certification is a vote of confidence in our people, processes, technology, and governance of information as we connect Ugandans to opportunities,” he said in a press statement.

Murali further noted that “As an innovative technology-enabler, Airtel Uganda will continue to shop and deploy for the best information security management ICTs.” “We have trained and certified staff who have dedicated their professional lives to ensuring that information security is upheld as we transform Uganda through our affordable products, services, and solutions,” he concluded.

The certification follows the evaluation of Airtel Uganda’s information security practices, employee competencies, operational processes, and information management technologies, by a team of experts from ISO in March this year.

The evaluation covered network planning against international standards, professionalism and security of network operations, and the infrastructure supporting these operations (including operational support systems, transmission, core, value-added services, and billing systems).

Additionally, ISO examined the telco’s commitment to international standards for Business Continuity Management systems by evaluating the existence and effectiveness of their disaster recovery plans, resources, and personnel expertise.

Mr. David Birungi, Airtel Uganda’s Public Relations Manager noted that international standards are crucial for companies like Airtel to adhere to.

“These standards ensure that the products and services our customers use are safe, reliable, and of high quality,” he said. “They also guide businesses toward adopting sustainable and ethical practices, ultimately creating a future where customer purchases not only excel in performance but also safeguard our planet.”

Birungi emphasized the telco’s commitment to continuously raise the standards of the services it provides in the communities it serves.

ALSO READ: AIRTEL AFRICA CEO, SEGUN OGUNSANYA HONORED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

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ABLA is a flagship annual recognition event run by Africa Leadership Magazine (ALM), aimed at honoring exceptional corporate practice and outstanding achievers in Africa’s business landscape and private sector. The awards showcase Africa’s businesses and leaders, celebrating exemplary business leadership across Africa.

Dr. Ken Giami, Chairman of the African Leadership Organisation and Publisher of the African Leadership Magazine said the award winners exemplify the spirit of innovation, resilience, and excellence driving growth and development across Africa.

Ogunsanya said the recognition, along with that of other distinguished Africans, truly humbles him. “It truly belongs to all those who have been on the journey with me at various times,” he said in a press statement. “My career has been focused on serving the needs of people across Africa, most recently through enhanced digital and financial inclusion. I remain determined to help make Africa a better place for its people, and I hope my journey inspires the next generation of Africa’s business leaders.”

Ogunsanya, currently the CEO of Airtel Africa, will retire effective July 1st, 2024, ending his 12 years in the role.

Building on the work undertaken during his time as CEO, including the launch of the company’s first sustainability strategy, and given his deep experience across Africa, Ogunsanya will become the Airtel Africa Charitable Foundation’s inaugural Chair.

Ogunsanya’s landmark contributions towards advancing Africa’s socio-economic growth and development include his 12-year career at Airtel Africa. He ran the Nigeria operations of the telecommunications and mobile money company for nine years before he was appointed CEO of the Group in 2021.

Segun has over 35 years of business management experience in banking, consumer goods, and telecoms.

Before joining Airtel Africa in 2012, he held leadership roles at Coca-Cola Bottling operations in Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya (as MD and CEO respectively). He was the Managing Director of Nigerian Bottling Company Ltd (Coca-Cola Hellenic-owned), and Group Head of Retail Banking Operations at Ecobank Transnational Inc., covering 28 African countries.

He is an electronics engineer and a chartered accountant.

The 9th ALM Africa Summit will be held under the theme “Africa Unleashed: Navigating Disruptions, Enhancing Opportunities”, with policymakers, private sector leaders, civil society leaders, thought leaders and stakeholders from across Africa and the rest of the world expected to attend.

The post Airtel Africa CEO, Segun Ogunsanya Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

This significant contribution which is 2% of the telco’s annual gross revenue for the year ending 2023 is in accordance with the Communications Act and the terms of the network’s license, which mandates telecommunication operators to allocate 2% of their annual gross revenue to support the country’s development of rural communications infrastructure.

While briefing the press at UCC head offices in Bugolobi, UCC’s newly appointed Executive Director, Hon. Nyombi Thembo acknowledged Airtel Uganda’s contribution to telecommunications and the country’s ICT sectors.

“Airtel has been an example and a force in communication development in Uganda,” said Nyombi. “I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the company for their contribution of UGX34.8 billion which will undoubtedly go a long way in bridging the digital divide and fostering inclusive growth involvement across Uganda.” Adding “This underscores the understanding of the critical role Airtel plays in ensuring that the underserved population in our country gain access to vital communication services.”

The Managing Director of Airtel Uganda, Manoj Murali reaffirmed the network’s commitment to providing reliable communication services in the country emphasizing that the company is deeply committed to Uganda’s development.

“Our commitment is demonstrated by our participation in the licensing regime and providing reliable communication services across Uganda,” said Manoj. “We do this because our role as technology enablers is to unlock the potential of Uganda as we connect people and businesses to opportunities.”

Manoj went a step to applaud the Commission for their continued oversight and support in growing access, equity, and long-term sustainability of the telecommunication sector. “UCC plays a vital role in fostering a thriving telecommunications sector that empowers Ugandans in our increasingly connected world,” he concluded.

The press was informed that UCC will utilize the UGX34.8 billion contributed by Airtel Uganda to support developing and enhancing rural communications infrastructure, especially in underserved areas.

Through strategic partnerships and collaborative efforts with government MDAs, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders, Airtel Uganda remains committed to its mission to drive digital transformation and empower communities across Uganda with access to reliable and high-quality communication services.

The post UCC ED: Airtel’s UGX34.8bn Will Undoubtedly be Used to Bridge the Digital Divide Across Uganda appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

The solution which was launched by the Head of Information Technology and Security at UCC; Mr. ­­­­Michael Bamwesigye and Manoj Murali, Airtel Uganda’s Managing Director will show users how much data each application on their device is consuming.

Manoj said, “The Data Usage Manager is just one way we’re committed to providing our customers with the tools and information they need to get the most out of their Airtel Uganda experience.”

Bamwesigye commended the telco for its proactive approach to addressing consumer concerns related to mobile data usage.

“I am excited about this launch and for us at the Commission, this shows a commitment that Airtel Uganda is listening to its customers and the ongoing public outcry, especially about data usage,” said Bamwesigye. “This is a step in the right direction and I believe that this goes a long way in improving the customer experience as well as the customer journey on Airtel Uganda’s services and platform.”

In today’s digital era, the Internet has become a necessity in fostering communication, driving economic growth, education, health, and overall access to vital services — which in the long run shapes a country’s digital future.

The growing global digital landscape has created a high demand for fast, reliable internet access and smartphones that telecommunications companies and key industry players have been tasked to meet. According to the UCC Market Report for June 2023 FY 4Q 2022/23, the predominant force fueling internet adoption in the country remains the proliferation of smartphones, accounting for 99% of the total new connections across both mobile phones and other mobile internet devices.

The report also stated that mobile internet subscriptions increased from 11.8 million in March 2023 to 12.5 million in June 2023. This growth in data usage and users calls for more accountability and the need for telecom operators to provide their customers value for money for their data purchases as most use the service for businesses, studying, and entertainment, among other uses.

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