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.
Kagiso Mothibi, CEO of Fintech South Africa at MTN, emphasised that this isn’t just another product launch but a transformative move that redefines access to opportunity: “smartphones are gateways to education, financial inclusion, and opportunity. By enabling rent-to-own through the MTN MoMo App, we’re placing that gateway into more hands than ever before.”
The service leverages MTN’s trusted fintech platform in collaboration with Airvantage, utilising advanced AI-driven affordability assessments that do not require payslips or credit history, making the process quick, secure, and tailored to South Africa’s informal economy.
Once approved, customers can select flexible payment plans spanning three, six, nine, or twelve months, and upon completing their payments, they own the device outright.
“This is what customer-first innovation looks like. We’re bringing people into the digital world with dignity, simplicity, and flexibility,” said Mothibi.
The initiative follows previous successful launches such as Smartphone For All and Shesh@ 5G SIM Delivery, reinforcing MTN’s commitment to addressing the digital divide and challenging the high costs associated with smartphone ownership in South Africa. The initial rollout features trusted 4G-enabled Samsung smartphones, with plans to expand to other reputable brands.
The process is straightforward: customers download or open the MTN MoMo App, select the Handset Rent-to-Own option, apply with a few taps, pay a small deposit, choose their preferred payment plan, and receive their device. Once all payments are made, the device is fully owned, marking a significant step towards inclusive digital access. MTN’s latest offering underscores that innovation is not just about gadgets but about creating meaningful impact for people.
