Tanzania establishes first regulatory framework for direct-to-mobile satellite services
08 August 2025
The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) has formally released its Guidelines for the Provision of Direct-to-Mobile Phone Satellite Communication, marking Tanzania’s first comprehensive regulatory framework for delivering mobile services directly via satellite to standard handsets.
This development positions Tanzania among the early nations embracing this innovative technology, which aims to expand coverage in rural and underserved regions by integrating non-terrestrial networks (NTN) with existing terrestrial mobile infrastructure.
Find out more MTN MoMo South Africa launches rent-to-own smartphones
05 August 2025
In a bold step towards enhancing digital inclusion, MTN MoMo South Africa has introduced a new Handset Rent-to-Own programme aimed at making smartphones more accessible to millions of South Africans.
This initiative is designed to remove barriers to connectivity, empowering users — particularly the unbanked and underserved — to own a 4G or 5G device affordably, starting from as little as R10 a day, with no credit checks or complex paperwork involved.
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MTC Namibia and Letshego launch pilot for instant mobile microloans via USSD
04 August 2025
MTC Namibia has partnered with Letshego Micro Financial Services to pilot a new mobile microlending platform designed to provide instant loans directly through customers’ mobile phones.
The initiative, branded ‘Tamba Maris’, leverages USSD technology to deliver quick and accessible microfinance services within Namibia.
Find out more Orange Côte d'Ivoire launches OM Pay
30 July 2025
Amid significant growth in mobile money usage within Côte d'Ivoire, Orange Côte d'Ivoire has introduced OM Pay, a new mobile application designed to facilitate merchant payments and money transfers.
The launch aims to tackle ongoing challenges in the sector, such as complex interfaces, limited accessibility for certain users, security issues, interoperability gaps between different platforms, and increasing competition from fintech firms like Wave.
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