Safaricom Lipa Mdogo Mdogo Phones: What You Need to Know

Safaricom’s Lipa Mdogo Mdogo initiative provides Kenyans with an affordable way to own smartphones by paying in installments. Also referred to as Lipa Pole Pole phones, this program is ideal for individuals looking for budget-friendly devices without the need to make full upfront payments. Here’s everything you need to know about this offer, including eligibility, prices, payment plans, and how to apply. Safaricom Lipa Mdogo Mdogo Phones

Overview of Lipa Mdogo Mdogo Phones

Safaricom, in partnership with Google, offers smartphones payable in daily installments as low as Ksh 20 over a period of 12 months. The only phone currently available under this program is the Neon Ray Pro, a 4G smartphone with the following specifications:

Key Features of Neon Ray Pro

• Operating System: Android 10 (Go edition).
• RAM: 1GB.
• Internal Storage: 16GB (expandable up to 32GB via microSD).
• Cameras: 5MP front and back cameras.
• Battery Capacity: 2500mAh.
• SIM Type: Single SIM, locked to Safaricom.

Limitations

• The battery capacity is limited, making it unsuitable for heavy usage such as continuous web browsing or prolonged chatting.
• The phone is restricted to Safaricom SIM cards, limiting flexibility for users who prefer multi-network access.

Eligibility Criteria for Lipa Mdogo Mdogo Phones

Not everyone qualifies for this offer. Below are the categories of people ineligible for the program:

1. Current Smartphone Users: Individuals currently using any 4G smartphone or those who recently used one.
2. CRB Listed Individuals: Those with outstanding loans (e.g., Fuliza, M-Shwari, HELB) are disqualified.
3. New Safaricom Customers: Lines that are less than one year old do not qualify.
4. Age Restrictions: Individuals below 18 years or above 75 years.

Payment Options and Prices

Safaricom provides flexible payment options to suit various income flows. You can choose to pay daily, weekly, or monthly through M-Pesa, even from a different number.

Pricing Details:

• Initial Deposit: Ksh 1,000.
• Daily Installments: Ksh 20 for 12 months.

Defaulting on Payments:

• Grace Period: You can continue using the phone for up to 3 days if you miss a payment.
• Locked Device: On the 4th day of non-payment, the phone is locked, restricting calls and SMS.
• CRB Listing: If payments are completely abandoned, you risk being listed on CRB.

Incentives for Timely Payments:

Safaricom rewards customers who pay consistently for 7 days with 100MB of free YouTube bundles as encouragement. Safaricom Lipa Mdogo Mdogo Phones

How to Apply for a Lipa Mdogo Mdogo Phone

Follow these steps to apply for a Lipa Mdogo Mdogo phone:

1. Dial: *544# from your Safaricom line.
2. Select Option 8: (Lipa Mdogo Mdogo).
3. Accept Terms and Conditions: Choose Option 1.
4. Eligibility Check: Safaricom will assess your eligibility and send a confirmation SMS.
5. Phone Selection: The SMS will list the available phones and their prices.
6. Pay Deposit: Pay the Ksh 1,000 deposit via M-Pesa.
7. Collect Your Phone: Pick up the device at your nearest Safaricom shop.

Alternative Options: M-KOPA Phones

If the Neon Ray Pro does not meet your needs, consider M-KOPA phones, which offer more powerful devices on similar installment plans. Key differences include:

• Features: Latest Android OS, up to 4GB RAM, and up to 128GB internal storage.
• Flexibility: M-KOPA phones are not restricted to Safaricom SIM cards.
• Eligibility: Available to individuals irrespective of age or CRB status.

These alternatives include models from Samsung, Nokia, Infinix, and OPPO, offering better performance for users who need more advanced devices.

Pros and Cons of Safaricom Lipa Mdogo Mdogo Phones

Pros:

• Affordable entry point for smartphone ownership.
• Flexible payment options.
• Encourages financial discipline with incentives for timely payments.

Cons:

• Limited to one phone model (Neon Ray Pro).
• Restricted to Safaricom SIM cards.
• Device specifications are basic, unsuitable for heavy users.

Conclusion

Safaricom’s Lipa Mdogo Mdogo program provides an excellent opportunity for Kenyans to own a smartphone at an affordable cost. While the Neon Ray Pro may not cater to heavy users, it is a practical choice for individuals seeking entry-level smartphones for basic tasks. For those requiring more advanced devices, M-KOPA offers a wider range of options with flexible payment terms.

If you meet the eligibility criteria and are looking for a simple and affordable way to own a smartphone, the Lipa Mdogo Mdogo program is worth considering. However, always evaluate your needs and budget before making a decision.