In a move to improve digital access and inclusion in Kenya, Jumia, Africa’s leading e-commerce platform, has partnered with Watu Credit, an asset financier, to offer flexible Buy-Now-Pay-Later (BNPL) plans for smartphones. This new initiative will allow Kenyans to buy smartphones and pay for them in daily, weekly or monthly installments via mobile money, making devices more accessible without the need for full payment upfront.
Closing the Gap
Smartphone penetration in Kenya is already high at 80% but many users still use low quality devices. The partnership between Jumia and Watu Credit aims to bridge these gaps by allowing Kenyans to own premium smartphones including top brands like Samsung through affordable financing options.
Erick Massawe, Country Manager at Watu Credit said, “Access to affordable smartphones is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Our financing model allows customers to pay as they go, build a credit history and unlock opportunities to grow their income and digital skills.”
How it Works
Watu Credit’s financing model is powered by technology enabled solutions using IoT based locking software. This means customers only have access to the device as long as they are making their payments. Payments are made through mobile money platforms and if payments are missed the device becomes inactive until the balance is settled.
Since 2022 Watu Credit has financed nearly 2 million devices in Kenya and has contributed to the digital and economic empowerment of its users particularly in underserved communities.
A Step towards Digital Inclusion
The partnership is a big step in empowering Kenyans with the tools they need to succeed in a digital first world. Vinod Goel, Jumia’s East Africa Regional CEO said this partnership aligns with Jumia’s broader mission to increase access to smartphones and help Kenyans participate in the digital economy. “Smartphones are our top selling products. By partnering with Watu we can increase access to connected devices and make it easier for Kenyans to participate in the digital economy,” Goel said.Besides personal use, the initiative will have a ripple effect on small business owners, delivery workers, students and families who will now have access to reliable smartphones to increase their income, educate themselves and stay connected to the world around them.
The Future of Smartphone Ownership in Kenya
The financing program starts with Jumia agents helping customers through the first phase of the process. But the companies plan to eventually offer direct online access where customers can select their smartphones at checkout, complete digital Know Your Customer (KYC) checks and have their devices delivered to their doorstep.
This is not just about e-commerce but about creating a path to digital inclusion for the Kenyan population. As the project progresses it will make smartphones more accessible and give users the tools to transform their businesses, education and overall lifestyle.