Ethio Telecom will give out 2 million smartphones every year on long-term plans to help low-income rural citizens.
The phones will be provided at affordable prices through long-term payments. The goal is to increase smartphone use in rural areas.
The company is working with Siinqee Bank to fund this program. They have set aside 4 billion Birr for the first round.
This move aims to promote digital and financial inclusion. Ethio Telecom wants all citizens to benefit from the growing digital economy.
“Ethio telecom is set to provide 2 million smartphones on long-term payment plans to ensure digital inclusion.”
“To ensure inclusion by increasing smartphone penetration and supporting digital skill development, the company has prepared an initiative…”
Also Read: Ethio Telecom Opens New South South-East Region Office to Boost Digital Access
Supporting Digital Skills and Inclusion
The program will help people learn digital skills while giving them access to phones and digital services. Ethio Telecom says the plan is ready for launch. It will focus on helping people in rural communities across Ethiopia.
“…to provide 2 million phones a year to citizens at affordable prices through long-term payment plans.”
The company also plans to grow this project. It will work with other partners in future efforts.
“Ethio Telecom will continue to implement similar efforts with other partners to ensure digital and financial inclusion…”
Earlier, Ethio Telecom and Siinqee Bank started mobile financial and device financing services. This project was worth 15 billion Birr.
“It is recalled that Ethio telecom, in partnership with Siinqee Bank, launched mobile financial and device financing services totaling 15 billion Birr.”
This smartphone plan is part of a wider mission to make digital tools available to all citizens, especially in underserved areas.