The campaign which effectively kicks off not only brings exciting prizes but also includes exclusive offers designed to make it easier and more affordable for customers to join the Talkio Mobile family.

The lucky winners will be randomly selected and announced each week as part of Talkio’s giveaway. By simply booking a new Talkio SIM through their official website, customers will automatically be entered into the contest for a chance to win prizes including data bundles, smartphones, and MiFi devices. This ongoing weekly selection gives participants multiple opportunities to win, making every new booking another shot at being chosen.

In addition to weekly prizes, Talkio has an ultimate reward, a new iPhone 16 Pro Max. This highly anticipated prize will be awarded once Talkio Mobile reaches 10,000 bookings, marking a milestone celebration for the company and its customers alike. The contest is open to all new customers who place bookings through our website, providing an inclusive opportunity for everyone to participate.

To enter the draw, customers who book a Talkio SIM through the website will automatically be entered into the draw. It’s quick, easy, and only takes a few steps:

1. Visit the Talkio Mobile website, www.talkiomobile.com/BookYourNumber to get started.
2. Browse and select a Talkio number that’s uniquely yours.
3. Choose from our flexible and affordable plans, or build a customized bundle that fits your needs.
4. Review your selection to ensure everything is correct.
5. Complete your registration with your personal information.
6. Make payment with MTN or Airtel mobile money. Once you’ve made the payment, you’ll receive a Booking ID via email confirming your entry into the draw.

Each booking automatically enters customers into a weekly draw to win exciting prizes, culminating in the grand prize of an iPhone 16 Pro Max

To make joining Talkio even more rewarding, the telco is introducing two weekly limited-time promotions for new customers:

• Weekly Combo Offer for UGX 30,000 includes 10GB of data, 50 minutes of on-net calls, 100 minutes of all-net calls, and 50 SMS discounted from UGX 40,118 to UGX 30,000.
• 20GB Data Offer for UGX 35,000, originally UGX50,381 and now discounted to UGX35,000, this exclusive offer is perfect for customers looking for a robust data package at an unbeatable price.

All these promotions are designed to give new customers affordable, flexible ways to stay connected while enjoying the benefits of Talkio Mobile’s top-tier services.

The iPhone 16 is the newest in Apple’s iPhone series and comes in four variants, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max.

The iPhone 16 Pro Max is Apple’s top-notch smartphone. The phone is powered by the top-of-the-line A18 Pro chip, which also powers the new Apple Intelligence features that are part of iOS 18. The iPhone 16 Pro Max comes with a larger display than their predecessors packing a screen size of 6.9-inch.

The phone is equipped with a triple rear camera setup that comprises a 48-megapixel wide primary camera, a 48-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera, a 12-megapixel telephoto camera, and a ‘tetraprism’ periscope lens that offers up to 5x optical zoom performance. In the front, it comes with a 12-megapixel TrueDepth camera for taking video calls and capturing selfies. In terms of video, the phone supports 4K 120fps recording.

The A18 Pro in the Pro Max is built on a 3nm process and has a new 16-core Neural Engine. Compared to its predecessor, there’s a 17% increase in total system memory bandwidth, which also benefits the 6-core GPU which is up to 20% faster than the previous generation. The new 6-core CPU is “the fastest in a smartphone”, boasting two performance cores and four efficiency cores that can run the same workload as the iPhone 15 Pro 15% faster while using 20% less power.

The iPhone 16 Pro Max is priced at $1,199 (approx. UGX4.5 million). Those who can’t afford can might as well take their chances with Talkio’s festival campaign.

The post Talkio Mobile in a New Festival Campaign Offers Customers a Chance to Win an iPhone 16 Pro Max appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Wakanet Fiber and Business Internet Fiber packages have been increased by up to 6 times with the entry package bumped up from 10Mbps to 60Mbps at the same competitive price of UGX130,000 monthly. Customers with heavier needs can opt for 100Mbps, 200Mbps, and a top-tier package offering 500Mbps. In addition, all fiber packages offer unlimited data, with no usage caps.

MTN Uganda General Manager for Growth and New Business, Mr. Franklin Ocharo emphasized the telco’s commitment to customer satisfaction saying, “At MTN Uganda, we believe that everyone deserves access to reliable and high-speed internet, whether they are relaxing or working from home.” Adding, “Our new WakaNet pricing and service enhancements reflect our dedication to providing affordable, top-quality broadband solutions that meet the needs of our customers across the country. This is all part of our broader mission under Ambition 2025, to connect every Ugandan to the benefits of a modern, connected life.”

These updates align with MTN’s Ambition 2025, to provide access to high-quality digital services to everyone regardless of their location or usage requirements. Through WakaNet, MTN continues to improve the home internet experience across Uganda, offering reliable, high-speed internet tailored to meet the diverse needs of its customers.

MTN has also made reliable high-speed internet access for customers outside fiber coverage available by making the 5G router available for FREE upon purchase of a 5G package starting at UGX130,000 monthly, which now comes packaged with battery backup to enable customers to remain connected in case of a power outage.

To make high-speed internet more affordable and accessible to all Ugandans, 4G routers are now available for purchase at UGX99,000, with affordable data packages starting at UGX55,000 monthly. In addition, customers can access the WakaNet MiFi at UGX50,000 and receive 5GB free on sign-up. MTN has also introduced Gaga bundles for MiFi devices, catering to the growing demand for flexible and affordable data options.

With the superior internet connectivity solutions offered by Wakanet, customers can enhance the security of their homes with security cameras availed by MTN. The security cameras, available for both indoor and outdoor use, provide a comprehensive security solution that integrates seamlessly with WakaNet, allowing customers to monitor their homes remotely in real time.

The post MTN Revises its WakaNet Home Broadband Service, Offers Price Cuts and More Speeds appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

“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.

This serves as a validation of Safaricom’s dedication to safeguarding customer data across its GSM and M-PESA services. It confirms that the company adheres to globally accepted regulatory and technical standards in the implementation of privacy management systems.

This milestone complements Safaricom’s existing certifications in Information Security Management Systems (ISO 27001 – ISMS) and the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS version 4.0)

The assessment conducted by BSI took into account various critical elements related to Safaricom’s operations, including effective system controls for the protection of personal information, implementation of relevant policies including the Data Protection Policy.

Other areas covered included crucial systems such as the Customer Relationship Management, IP Contact Centre, Tibco, Converged Billing System, Voucher Management System, M-PESA G2, M-PESA Statement Portal, M-PESA Super App, MySafaricom App, and the M-PESA business App.

“I would like to applaud the dedicated cross-functional teams whose tireless efforts have made this achievement possible. The attainment of the PIMS certification reaffirms our ongoing commitment to continuously improve our privacy and security measures, ensuring we provide exceptional experiences for our customers while safeguarding their private information,” said Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom in a press statement.

The post Safaricom Awarded ISO 27701 Privacy Certification by British Standards Institute 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.

“During his 7 years of service, Mr. Somdev Sen has been a transformative leader at MTN Uganda, driving significant growth through customer engagement initiatives, data-driven strategic insights, and key marketing campaigns,” MTN said in a press statement. “He’s efforts have resulted in remarkable business achievements, including doubling MTN Uganda’s customer base in the last six years.”

Ms. Sylvia Mulinge, MTN Uganda CEO said the company is proud of all of Somdev’s accomplishments and they are confident that he will continue to achieve great things in his new role as the Chief Digital and Commercial Officer for MTN Rwanda.

Somdev’s contributions have driven the company’s growth and his passion and dedication have left a lasting impact on MTN Uganda.

Somdev during his time with the Telco has led the execution of some of the most iconic MTN Marketing campaigns such as Uganda is Home, MTN Senkyu, MoMo Nyabo, Wesotinge, and the ongoing MTN brand thematic campaign; Together we’re Unstoppable among others.

Also read:

• • Q&A with Somdev Sen about ‘Senkyu’, MTN Uganda’s loyalty program
  • Real lives impacted by MoMo Nyabo Promo — Somdev Sen, MTN Uganda CMO
  • Wesotinge with MTN MoMo: A dive into financial solutions for all
  • MTN launches 2023 thematic campaign: “Together, we are Unstoppable”

In his parting remarks, Somdev said, “I am extremely honored to have served MTN Uganda in three distinct roles. I am grateful for the amazing team and the wonderful people of Uganda with whom I have had the great pleasure of working.” Adding “As I move on to my new role, I am confident that you shall keep being unstoppable.”

The post Somdev Sen: I’m Extremely Honored to Have Served MTN Uganda appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Through the Gaga campaign and other 5G initiatives such as Wakanet 5G, MTN Uganda is leading the charge towards 5G data liberalization, ensuring that this transformative technology isn’t just available to the elite but is accessible to every Ugandan. By making 5G affordable, MTN is empowering individuals and businesses to harness the full potential of the internet —whether it’s for education, work, or entertainment.

Somdev Sen, the MTN Uganda Chief Marketing Officer notes that with the ongoing Gaga campaign, MTN Uganda is not just introducing a faster internet connection but rather opening the door to new possibilities, helping individuals and businesses step into the future.

“We believe that connectivity is a key driver of development. Our investment in 5G is a testament to our vision of bringing world-class internet to Ugandans,” said Somdev. “With the affordable 5G bundles through the Gaga campaign, we are ensuring that everyone —whether a student, an entrepreneur, or a large enterprise —can access the fastest internet at the most affordable price.”

See also: We’re demonstrating to Ugandans that 5G is no longer just an idea, it is here — MTN Uganda

5G’s transformative potential lies in its ability to deliver low latency and massive bandwidth, making it a game-changer for key industries. In sectors like logistics, manufacturing, and retail, 5G enables seamless integration of advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, and smart solutions, improving productivity and efficiency. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) also stand to benefit from these new digital tools, enabling them to access broader markets and scale their operations.

For individual users, MTN’s affordable 5G bundles unlock new possibilities. Students can access educational content in real time, regardless of location, while remote workers can hold virtual meetings with ease. Gamers, content creators, and entertainment enthusiasts will appreciate the lag-free experiences, faster downloads, and uninterrupted streaming that 5G offers. This high-speed connectivity promises to revolutionize learning, work, and leisure for many Ugandans.

Since the official 5G launch last year, MTN has significantly invested in expanding 5G infrastructure nationwide. This has resulted in the rollout of 5G towers across the country, ensuring reliable and fast connectivity. With over 538 5G sites now operational, MTN is helping Uganda leap into the future with world-class internet that accelerates innovation, business growth, and education.

MTN Uganda’s broader vision for 5G is rooted in data liberalization. By making 5G accessible to all, MTN aims to foster a future where connectivity is no longer a privilege but a right. The Gaga campaign exemplifies this vision by offering affordable 5G bundles in urban and rural communities, thus democratizing access to next-generation technology.

This push for universal connectivity is not just about faster internet. The spread of 5G will revolutionize healthcare, education, entertainment, and other key sectors, opening doors to new digital solutions and more efficient service delivery. Businesses of all sizes will be empowered to thrive in a fast-evolving digital marketplace.

Also read:

• • 5G Revolution: MTN Uganda’s bold step towards connectivity
  • How 5G compares to 4G and fiber — Yasin Ramadhan
  • 5G is key to Africa’s business success, experts urge

With MTN’s continued investments in 5G infrastructure and affordable data solutions, the impact of this technology will extend to more regions across Uganda. As technology spreads, the digital evolution it brings promises to transform how people work, learn, and connect.

Through this expansion, MTN Uganda is reinforcing its leadership in the telecom industry. With its 5G network, MTN is not just delivering faster internet but creating a brighter future, where technology is the driving force behind economic development and social inclusion. As more Ugandans gain access to 5G, the country is set to experience profound changes, with connectivity driving growth and innovation.

“The Gaga campaign is a clear testament to MTN Uganda’s mission to make high-speed internet and cutting-edge technology available to all. As 5G continues to gain momentum across the country, individuals and businesses alike are set to benefit from the vast opportunities it provides, ensuring that Uganda remains at the forefront of the digital revolution,” Somdev said.

As 5G continues to spread across Uganda, it promises to accelerate the country’s economic and digital transformation, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital revolution.

The post MTN Makes its 5G Internet Affordable in the Latest Gaga Campaign appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

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.

The post Airtel Money Partners with Stabex to Drive Cashless Payments at Fuel Stations in Uganda appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

“If we are to truly make the digital transition, we cannot be laggards in the adoption of emerging technologies, that have the potential to turn around our fortunes, spur connectivity, and power our digital economy,” said Mugonyi at the launch of a multi-million-shilling long-distance fibre network from Mombasa to Malaba by Bayobab Kenya.

Mugonyi also cited the ongoing review of the legal and regulatory frameworks as a proactive step towards ensuring the Authority is responsive to the emerging issues in the sector and enabling access for all, facilitating the growth of ICT enterprises and the spread of innovation.

The long-distance fibre connects over 1,000 kilometers, and runs along the Kenya Railway’s metre gauge railway line, providing Internet connectivity to towns along the route. Internet service providers looking at expanding or boosting connectivity in the areas along the route will be able to leverage the new fibre infrastructure as an efficient high-capacity backbone.

See also: Safaricom hits 1,000+ 5G Sites, expands coverage across all Kenyan counties

The long-distance fibre runs up to the border of Kenya and Uganda where it interconnects into Uganda for onward connectivity to Rwanda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) thus, revolutionizing connectivity and boosting reliability in this vital region.

Mugonyi noted that broadband is the definitive digital investment for digital development, as it is the essential component of the Digital Superhighway, the government’s programme for accelerating ubiquitous access to broadband in the country.

“Today, Bayobab presents to us and the market their solution for enhancing connectivity across Kenya and at the same time strike a blow for digital progress and prosperity,” said Mugonyi —adding “Kenyans are innovative and enterprising, and with relevant infrastructure and solutions, they are able to thrive in the digital economy and boost efforts at narrowing the digital divide.”

The Director General said that eliminating the digital divide is the hurdle, the task that the Authority must surmount, and their capacity to deliver Kenya’s digital promise and broadband is at the heart of meeting their national need for digital access.

Bayobab Kenya’s Managing Director, Ms. Sylvia Anampiu, expressed her pride regarding the project underscoring the company’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of telecommunications infrastructure through ambitious programmes of building 135,000km of proprietary fibre across Africa by 2025.

”This project is about connecting communities and businesses, creating opportunities, and delivering a modern connected life to more people across the continent. We are confident that this initiative will be a game-changer for connectivity in Kenya and beyond,” said Anampiu.

See also: ITU Secretary-General, Doreen Bogdan-Martin applauds Uganda’s digital transformation roadmap

This new route represents a significant milestone in boosting reliability and ensuring low-latency connectivity inland and cross-border between the East and West coasts of Africa, a vital step towards enhancing the digital economy, trade, and economic growth within the region. It will also link landlocked countries to subsea cables at the port of Mombasa using the shortest route and provide a unique route to protect and strengthen services for Bayobab Kenya’s existing and new customers.

Bayobab Kenya is part of the Bayobab Group, the digital infrastructure business arm of MTN Group.

Through the Universal Service Fund, CAK plays an integral role in supporting the Kenyan government’s agenda of expanding digital connectivity through enhancing access to communications services, particularly in underserved and unserved communities.

Over the last five years the CAK, through the Universal Service Fund (USF), has connected over 750,000 people across 136 sub-locations in 24 counties to network services. The ongoing second phase of the project targets 101 sub-locations with two more phases to follow targeting 400 sub-locations across the country.

The Authority in supporting the realization of the Kenyan government’s digital transformation agenda is partnering with the ICT Authority to deploy 2,500km of last-mile fibre connectivity across 19 counties at a cost of KSh5 billion. So far, 1,300km of fibre has been deployed across Turkana, West Pokot, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Samburu, Marsabit, Mandera, Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, Kwale, Kitui, Laikipia, Isiolo, Garissa, Wajir, Kitui, Makueni, Kajiado, and Narok.

In the second phase of this initiative, the Authority is collaborating with Kenya Power to connect 3,800 public offices and institutions across the country to the Internet. Other programmes in the pipeline include the establishment of 47 ICT Centres of Excellence in all Counties and 1,450 ICT hubs in every Ward, to be delivered in partnership with the Konza Technopolis Development Authority.

See also: NITA ED, Dr. Hatwib Mugasa commissions the “Last Mile Project” of the NBI

The post David Mugonyi: Communications Authority of Kenya to Spur Innovation and Uptake of New Tech appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Talkio Mobile promises to deliver unparalleled connectivity that meets the demands of modern users. The promise of high-speed internet and seamless communication is not just a dream; it’s a reality that Talkio Mobile aims to bring to every Ugandan.

The MVNO model allows the telecom to operate without the burden of maintaining its infrastructure, enabling it to focus on providing flexible pricing plans and innovative services that cater to a diverse audience. This means that users can expect competitive rates and tailored offerings that resonate with their unique needs.

Some of its services will include voice, data, SMS, mobile money services under Talkio Money, and enterprise solutions. In addition, Talkio Mobile will have a product that might allow people to build custom bundles plus more.

Talkio Mobile has already begun to tease the public through its social media channels with glimpses of what’s to come, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive.

Talkio Mobile is poised to disrupt the telecommunications industry in Uganda and deliver an unparalleled mobile experience to its customers.

See also: Safaricom Ethiopia’s 4G network now covers nearly half of Ethiopia in just two years

The post Talkio Mobile Hints on its Launch in Uganda in an X Post appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.