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.

The post Airtel, ZTE Launch the ZTE Nubia to Bridge Smartphone Penetration in Uganda appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

The agreement was executed in September 2024, with the first tranche of UGX5 billion disbursed. MOGO Loan will continue to release funds phased by phase as needed for on-lending purposes, with full utilization expected by the end of 2024. This phased approach ensures the customer can align loan disbursements with their operational needs, reinforcing flexibility and support throughout the deal lifecycle.

The structured loan will be repaid over a maximum period of 30 months, empowering hundreds of riders to own environmentally friendly electric bikes that are cheaper to maintain and operate.

Speaking at the signing of the memorandum of understanding, the Executive Director and Head of Markets for Absa Bank Uganda, David Wandera, said the deal underscores the bank’s commitment to supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy and enabling even greater financial inclusion.

“This partnership goes beyond a typical loan transaction. We are aware that a significant share of economic activity is within the informal sector, however, access to financial services remains the main obstacle to the growth of informal businesses and could be a possible incentive for them to formalize,” said Wandera. “We are pleased to enter this unique arrangement with MOGO Loans, which will drive greater financial inclusion, delivering credit to the last mile, while also contributing to a green economy.”

MOGO Uganda CEO Mikhail Vydryn said, “MOGO Uganda has demonstrated significant investment in the country, with a net loan portfolio totaling EUROs 28 million (approx. UGX110.35 billion) funded primarily through equity, shareholder loans, and offshore debt.” He added, “Absa’s involvement through local currency funding mitigates MOGO Uganda’s FX risk, creating a perfect alignment between Absa’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) values and MOGO’s efforts to tackle unemployment in Uganda’s informal sector.”

Mikhail revealed that since their launch in May, they have successfully financed nearly 870 e-boda units, enabling their clients to travel over 2.5 million kilometers using clean electricity. “This initiative has not only resulted in a significant reduction of approximately 70 tonnes of CO₂ emissions but has also created substantial economic benefits for the riders,” he added.

The electric bikes funded through this loan offer a groundbreaking solution to Uganda’s ‘boda boda’ industry. With no emissions, they are environmentally friendly, aligning with global trends toward greener transportation. The bikes also present significant cost savings for riders: for just UGX8,000, riders can charge their bikes for 80 kilometres, far more efficient than fossil fuel bikes, which cost UGX10,000 for 70 kilometres.

The lower operational and maintenance costs make this an innovative and economically viable alternative.

Speaking about the facility, the bank pointed out that this was a landmark agreement, requiring navigation of complex negotiations and multi-jurisdictional legal frameworks to protect all parties involved.

“Despite the lack of tangible security, Absa Bank Uganda confidently entered this partnership based on the strength of MOGO Loan’s corporate guarantees and the potential of the project,” said Wandera. “At Absa Bank, we believe that our clients’ stories are central to everything we do. Every transaction we engage in is a testament to our commitment to empower, uplift, and transform the communities we serve.”

He concludes by saying “This partnership with MOGO Loan reflects our ongoing investment in solutions that address local challenges while promoting sustainable growth.”

With this financing, MOGO Uganda projects that they will be able to reach 1,000 electric motorbikes issued through the hire purchase arrangement by the end of November 2024, easing the financial burden on many informal operators who are often expected to pay upfront for these assets with large sums of money they may not have.

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“This move marks a significant point in our journey of transforming local communities across Uganda through improved access to digital services in finance, telecommunications and retail distribution by modernizing last mile access through technology solutions at scale,” said John Paul Ssemyalo, CEO of Pebuu Africa, during the initiation meeting at the Hamilton Telecom offices in Kololo.

Pebuu currently operates over 320 service points and supports over 50,000 SMEs nationwide. This potential partnership is poised to enable Hamilton Telecom extend its reach to remote customers, including those in hard-to-reach areas such as islands like Bugala, refugee camps such as Bidi Bidi and Rhino Refugee Camp, and national parks like Kibale, to mention but a few.

By leveraging Pebuu’s robust distribution network, the partnership will drive Paxtel’s nationwide rollout, ensuring seamless service delivery across Uganda.

John Kamya, the Board Chairman of Hamilton Telecom, expressed optimism about the prospects, emphasizing the opportunity to set a new standard of customer experience and bring quality mobile services to even the most isolated communities.

Recent data from the Uganda Communications Commission’s Q4 2024 report highlights the country’s expanding digital landscape, with 38.5 million telephone subscribers and 16.4 million mobile internet users. This growth presents significant opportunities for businesses to shape the future of digital communications and financial services.

With Pebuu’s advanced data-driven field management technology, featuring real-time tracking and geo-mapping, this collaboration aims to optimize seamless customer and retailers onboarding, training, mapping and monitoring.

Pebuu’s technology solutions are trusted by major banks, including Stanbic, Centenary, and Housing Finance, for managing digital channels and ensuring regulatory compliance of their nationwide agent banking networks.

By uniting their capabilities, Pebuu Africa and Hamilton Telecom aim to contribute to Uganda’s digital evolution, aligning with Pebuu’s vision of bridging traditional and digital communities through technology solutions in finance, retail, and mobile connectivity value chains.

See also: VP, Jessica Alupo launches the ambitious digital transformation roadmap

Paxtel Telecom, which is set to introduce innovative solutions such as mobile money services and customized data packages, will be a key part of this effort.

The post Pebuu Africa, Hamilton Telecom Partner to Accelerate Digital Transformation in Uganda appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

The partnership intends to connect over 7,500 SACCOs and Village Savings and Loan Associations to Wendi’s mobile financial platform in the West Nile regional districts Nebbi, Arua, Yumbe, Koboko, Moyo, and Adjumani.

“I am delighted about our collaboration with PostBank to use Wendi mobile wallet to digitize our savings groups,” said Jenaro Onegi, CEO of WENIPS. “Harnessing digital technology will enhance financial literacy, security, and convenience for our members, empowering them economically and building resilience.”

This collaboration between WENIPS and Wendi is paving the way for a more inclusive financial landscape, propelling West Nile and Uganda towards economic growth and prosperity. WENIPS plays a vital role in fostering financial inclusion across West Nile.

See also: PostBank, MTN MoMo launch a digital microlending solution

Uganda’s third National Development Plan (NDP III) highlights that financial inclusion and digital financial literacy are key to achieving sustained economic growth. Digitizing VSLAs and SACCOs with Wendi aligns with these national objectives, enhancing financial literacy and creating a more resilient economy in the West Nile region.

Patrick Okwi Osakan, PostBank’s Regional Distribution Head for the Northern and West Nile regions, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to fostering prosperity for Ugandans by delivering innovative financial solutions that foster a culture of saving among Ugandans. “With Wendi, we are empowering individuals and groups, particularly those underserved by traditional banks, to access secure savings accounts, earn 10% annual interest on daily savings, and complete various financial transactions with ease,” he said.

The Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Nebbi District, Owachgiu Donald, said, “I commend PostBank Uganda for its foresight leadership by introducing the Wendi mobile wallet in West Nile. This will enable our people to have access to financial services, which will aid their participation in initiatives that boost socio-economic growth.”

Owachgiu called upon Ugandans to take advantage of Wendi and participate in the nation’s progress, which will see the country transition from a peasant economy to a modern economy, which aligns with the government’s 2040 vision.

Wendi mobile wallet allows users to access its services without necessarily owning a bank account. The platform can be accessed on smartphones and feature phones, and users don’t have to be PostBank Uganda customers to use it. Thus, the collaboration is timely as it will boost access to financial services for West Nile residents who may lack traditional bank accounts.

West Nile was recently added to the national electricity grid through the Grid Extension and Reinforcement Project (GERP), a joint effort by the Ugandan Government and the World Bank to meet the national goal of Universal Access to Electricity by 2030. Access to reliable electricity, combined with Wendi’s digital financial services, this development is expected to boost the local economy by enabling the digitization of informal savings mechanisms and boosting the region to achieve its full potential.

See also: UMRA, PostBank to digitize tier IV microfinance institutions with Wendi platform

The post West Nile Community Urged to Embrace Wendi to Boost the Region’s Economic Growth appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Launched on the M-PESA For Business Super App, the partnership marks M-PESA’s drive to expand its suite of services for the 650,000 users registered for its business till number, and over 50 million monthly active users across several African countries. With tappi becoming one of the first mini apps to feature on M-PESA For Business, the startup will deliver a subsidized package equipping M-PESA’s merchants to build their online presence, capture verified reviews, and strengthen engagement with an expanded customer base. 

For KSH1,350 (approximately USD$11), merchants will receive access to a free webpage, 50 SMS/WhatsApp reviews, which will be integrated into the merchant’s websites, as well as 250 Bulk SMS Marketing Credits. As part of the collaboration, M-PESA Ratiba, a new automated solution allowing M-PESA users to automate their online payments, has also been included in the tappi mini app, enabling business owners to seamlessly pay their monthly subscriptions without disruptions. 

Kenfield Griffith, CEO and Co-Founder of tappi said they are proud to partner with one of the most innovative telcos in the market, and firmly believe this will be the first of many steps in their shared mission for MSMEs to not only become active but thriving participants in the digital economy.

Kenfield also noted that the partnership is a significant milestone for tappi and a huge endorsement of the value Safaricom and tappi look to generate for MSMEs across Kenya. “With over 35 million subscribers, M-PESA has long established itself as the engine through which millions of local entrepreneurs handle their transactions, and with many of these businesses constantly looking for new customers, our tools will be a crucial springboard in driving them to achieve this within an online setting,” he elaborated.

Targeted to reach at least 300,000 M-PESA for Business app users, the partnership has officially launched with an initial cohort of over 250 M-PESA For Business app users across the food, fashion, health, and beauty sectors throughout Kenya. tappi’s solutions will build on the M-PESA For Business app’s existing functionalities which include viewing collections, statements, and payments as well as transacting directly from the M-PESA till number. 

Safaricom’s CEO, Peter Ndegwa said, “We are happy to onboard tappi as our first mini-app partner on the M-PESA Business app. This partnership seeks to empower our merchants with affordable and innovative tools and capabilities to grow their businesses.” Adding “We look forward to driving financial inclusion through building the capacities of small and medium-sized businesses, enhancing customer experience thus contributing to the Kenyan economy.”

tappi’s collaboration with Safaricom marks the latest in a series of moves over the last 12 months to capture Africa’s USD$20 billion (approx. KSH2.59 trillion) market to bridge the digital divide for the continent’s MSMEs. In May 2024, the startup signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry to drive digital services for 30,000 Kenyan MSMEs. This followed its expansion to Cote d’Ivoire in March 2024 in partnership with MTN, whom tappi has also partnered with across its additional market, Nigeria. 

With a 90% retention rate and a 1.5-month payback period since its inception in 2019, the platform has captured verified reviews on USD$3.4 million (approx. KSH439.8 million) consumer transactions, and engaged with over 180,000 consumers to date, underscoring its commitment to driving digital inclusion and supporting MSMEs across Africa. 

According to USAID (US Agency for International Development), MSMEs generate nearly a third of Kenya’s total GDP. However, despite their significant economic impact, numerous businesses still face significant hurdles in establishing a trusted online presence. This is primarily due to current tools being too complex, the requirements for an international credit card, or the listing of websites in places where trust is difficult to gauge, establishing significant hurdles to access and convert new customers. 

Through its powerful end-to-end digital commerce stack, tappi addresses these challenges by facilitating a seamless online business profile creation process through an intuitive chat experience. Leveraging payments, messaging, and AI, the platform is quickly establishing itself as the SEO backbone to boost revenue for MSMEs across Africa, helping businesses gain visibility, consolidate payments with verified reviews to build online trust, and pay for online Ads with mobile airtime. 

The post tappi and Safaricom’s M-PESA Partner to Drive Digital Innovation for Kenyan MSMEs appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

During the meeting, Claude praised the revenue body for its vital role in tax collection and emphasized the importance of collaboration in tackling non-compliance issues. GVG representative Hamza Immarana also elaborated on how advancements in data technology have significantly improved data and revenue collection processes highlighting the potential for enhanced accuracy and efficiency in compliance monitoring.

Musinguzi, echoed these sentiments, urging for a more proactive approach to data collection and sharing. “Whatever we have been doing optimally, let us increase the energy. As URA, we need to reach a point where we no longer solely rely on tech companies’ data but can independently verify and compare it with our own,” he remarked.

The collaborative effort between URA and GVG since 2020/2021 is seen as a significant step towards enhancing the integrity of data practices within Uganda’s telecommunications industry and ensuring that all companies adhere to regulatory and revenue compliance standards.

In just one area, tax collection estimates show that the government’s decision to implement the digital system led to the recovery of tens of millions of dollars from the operators in under-declared levies and taxes. For example, in the FY 2019/2020, URA relied on GVG technology to collect over $5 million in gaming taxes. Despite some major players exiting the ecosystem, based on the data from the system it can be attested that URA now collects approximately $24 million in gaming taxes.

The GVG technology has also significantly improved the accuracy and reliability of tax assessments. For example, Local and Excise Duty (LED) taxes from the telecom sector have reached UGX1.5 trillion (approx. USD$380 million) recently against UGX800 million (approx. USD$200 million) three years ago.

The post URA, GVG to Bridge Compliance Gaps in Telecom and Data-Driven Sectors appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

“We are excited to collaborate with MTN MoMo on the XtraCash solution, a product that delivers convenience and speaks to our purpose of fostering prosperity for Ugandans. This product is here to extend support to the millions of Ugandans who rely on mobile money for their everyday transactions,” PostBank Uganda, Managing Director, Mr. Julius Kakeeto, said at the launch of the new service.

Kakeeto emphasized the bank’s commitment to going as far as forming partnerships with stakeholders like MTN MoMo with whom they share the same vision of growth and fostering prosperity for Ugandans by ushering them into the money economy.

“When we say ushering Ugandans to the money economy, we mean revolutionizing the way people have access to money, that is, anytime and anywhere or as and when they need it,” said Kakeeto. “We are cognizant that people always run out of cash and need some XTRA Cash to keep them running, this is why we are here today, to introduce a solution that will ensure that our customers’ needs are catered for.”

XtraCash is accessible through MTN mobile money with PostBank as the financial partner providing customers with support by extending micro-loans for everyday financial needs. The innovative solution aims to address the growing demand for accessible credit, particularly for underserved and unbanked communities.

In his remarks, Mr. Richard Yego, the Chief Executive of MTN MoMo, said, “XtraCash is another step forward in our mission to provide reliable, easy-to-use, and secure financial solutions to millions of Ugandans who depend on mobile money every day. We are proud to collaborate with PostBank Uganda, a partner that shares our vision of creating financial products that serve all Ugandans.”

Yego shared that MTN MoMo is committed to driving financial inclusion and ensuring that every Ugandan has access to financial services, regardless of their location or economic standing. He also emphasized the critical role that financial services like XtraCash play in empowering underserved and unbanked populations.

“By making micro-loans easily accessible to users, we are providing financial relief and opening doors to opportunities that can improve livelihoods and support businesses,” said Yego. “We believe this solution will have a significant impact on the day-to-day lives of many Ugandans by ensuring that they can access funds whenever they need them, especially in times of urgent need.”

XtraCash highlights MTN Mobile Money Uganda Limited’s commitment to financial inclusion and innovation, reinforcing the collaborative effort between both institutions in delivering impactful solutions to the Ugandan market.

To qualify for the XtraCash loan, one must be 18 years or older, an active MTN mobile money user for at least six (6) months, and maintain regular usage of MTN MoMo. Eligible users can use the MTN MoMo App or use the USSD code by dialing *165*5#, selecting XtraCash, and instantly checking the maximum loan limit they can access.

In addition to XtraCash, PostBank and MTN MoMo have previously partnered to disburse funds to the last mile beneficiary through Wendi mobile wallet as well as MOMO advance which are all aimed at driving financial inclusion by bringing and keeping more Ugandans in the money economy.

The post PostBank, MTN MoMo Launch a Digital Micro Lending Solution appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Known for her fashionable style, Spice Diana will serve as the face of BLACK, helping showcase the brand’s sleek, high-performance audio and wearable products.

“I’m excited to partner with BLACK, a brand that aligns with my love for quality and accessibility,” said Spice Diana.

BLACK is committed to delivering high-quality, trendy, and durable tech to Ugandans, and this partnership will further strengthen its presence in the market. “We offer a 1-year no-questions-asked replacement in case of any manufacturing issues, we are proud of our quality and customer-first approach,” said Kate, a spokesperson with BLACK.

The post BLACK Partners With Renowned Artist, Spice Diana to Bring Trendy Tech Products to Ugandans appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Ms. Grace Muliisa, Managing Director of Ecobank Uganda while emphasizing the partnership’s importance for Ugandans at home and those in the diaspora, particularly in the United Kingdom, the United States, and the Middle East, noted that the collaboration makes it easier for Ugandans abroad to send money to their loved ones, friends, and others in Uganda.

“There is a growing need to provide seamless financial solutions to Africans in the diaspora,” said Muliisa. “We are excited to collaborate with Ria Money Transfer to enhance the security and efficiency of remittance services for all Ugandans.”

Muliisa also highlighted how the partnership aligns with Ecobank’s mission to offer unmatched convenience in global funds transfer services and strengthen its position as a trusted partner for the Ugandan diaspora.

Mr. El Hadj Malick Seck, Managing Director of Ria Money Transfer in Africa, echoed these sentiments, highlighting that the collaboration is a valuable addition to Ria’s network, which spans over 580,000 physical locations in almost 200 countries. In addition, he also noted the importance of East Africa, particularly Uganda, in Ria’s operations and emphasized how the partnership would provide even greater convenience to Ugandans sending money back home.

The post Ecobank Uganda, Ria Money Transfer to Enhance Remittance Services appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

The Chief Strategy and Stakeholder Officer Stephen Mutana said “MTN Uganda believes that everyone should enjoy the benefits of a modern connected life, irrespective of their background or status and this includes access to opportunities.” He added, “Our partnership with the Uganda Christian University marks a pivotal chapter in MTN’s mission to ensure that every young Ugandan has access to the digital skills needed to succeed in today’s economy.”

Central to this partnership is the integration of the MTN Skills Academy into the university’s curriculum, bridging the digital skills gap and fostering economic growth through education and technology. The integration of the academy into UCU’s coursework, specifically within the foundational basic computing unit, will provide students with a robust foundation in practical digital skills, enhancing their academic and professional prospects.

The MTN Skills Academy is a flagship program under MTN’s Digital Skills for Digital Jobs initiative. It aims to provide young Ugandans with practical digital skills, in alignment with the African Union’s ‘Digital Transformation Strategy for Africa‘ and MTN’s Ambition 2025, which aspires to lead digital solutions for Africa’s progress.

Since its inception in Uganda in partnership with the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, National ICT Innovation Hub, American Tower Cooperation (ATC), and Huawei, the MTN Skills Academy has enrolled over 1,420 young individuals eager to enhance their digital proficiency and seize new employment opportunities.

According to the World Bank, this program addresses the critical challenge of unemployment and limited opportunities due to low digital literacy among Uganda’s youth, over 75% of whom are under the age of 30.

UCU’s Vice Chancellor, Mr. David Mugawe, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, noting that the university is dedicated to educational excellence and preparing its students for the future. “Collaborating with MTN Uganda on this initiative will significantly enrich our curriculum and provide our students with invaluable digital skills training,” he said.

“The signing of this MoU exemplifies the fruitful collaboration between the private sector and educational institutions in fostering meaningful change and driving Uganda’s digital agenda forward,” he added. “It is a testament to our collective responsibility to equip our youth with the skills necessary to lead Uganda into a digitally empowered future.”

Beyond the MTN Skills Academy, the MTN Foundation implements other initiatives such as the MTN ACE program, the MTN Internet Bus, and the provision of computers to educational institutions to enhance the population’s digital skills. These efforts reflect the foundation’s unwavering commitment to enhancing digital literacy and access across Uganda.

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