Costly smart phones a barrier to digital growthBy BUUMBA CHIMBULUHIGH prices of smartphones have remained a major barrier for digital inclusion in Zambia, according to MTN Zambia Chief executive Officer, Bart Hofker.Mr Hofker said it was for this reason that his company has partnered with Stanbic Bank Zambia to introduce flex payment plan for smart devices.The two institutions have extended their partnership to include ‘device finance’, a solution that will allow customers to acquire smartphones, tablets and laptops from MTN with a flexible payment plan of up to 24 months.“With this spread payment option, owning a smartphone becomes accessible to more people who will then be able to enjoy the benefits of a modern connected life. “Our partnership with Stanbic aims to enhance digital and financial inclusion in Zambia, which are crucial factors for the digitalisation ambitions of the Zambian Government,” Mr Hofker said during the signing of the partnership.MTN has a longstanding relationship with StanbicBank and the two have partnered on a number of services such as Bank to Mobile Wallet and virtual cards.Both organisations contend that the relationship between […]
Costly smart phones a barrier to digital growth
