Safaricom’s Smartphone Drive Gains Momentum
Kenya’s leading telecom company, Safaricom, is pushing forward its mission to accelerate smartphone adoption across the country. As of the latest report, the telco boasts an impressive 48.2 million customers—a clear indication of rapid digital integration.
In its recent investor briefing, Safaricom revealed that smartphone usage now accounts for over 60% of its active users. This achievement is largely due to ongoing initiatives aimed at bridging the digital divide, including flexible financing and device subsidies.
Lipa Mdogo Mdogo Increases Smartphone Accessibility
One of the key drivers behind this growth is the “Lipa Mdogo Mdogo” program. Introduced to support low-income earners, the initiative enables Kenyans to acquire smartphones through affordable daily instalments.
This micro-financing approach has helped thousands transition from feature phones to internet-enabled devices. Not only has this improved mobile internet access, but it has also spurred the uptake of M-Pesa services, video streaming, and social media platforms.
Rural Penetration Expands Through Strategic Partnerships
Safaricom’s strategy extends beyond urban centers. The company has partnered with key global brands, including Google, to manufacture low-cost Android devices tailored for rural markets.
These partnerships ensure that even remote areas benefit from affordable connectivity. As more people get online, there’s a noticeable increase in mobile commerce and digital literacy in Kenya’s underserved regions.
Revenue Growth Tied to Digital Expansion
The surge in smartphone users is not only a win for connectivity. Safaricom has recorded significant revenue growth tied to mobile data consumption, digital services, and value-added solutions.
With more than half of Kenyans using smartphones, the demand for data bundles and app-based services has skyrocketed. As a result, Safaricom has capitalized on this digital wave, expanding its product offerings and introducing loyalty-based data rewards.


5G Rollout to Drive Future Growth
In a bid to maintain momentum, Safaricom has started deploying 5G technology in select areas. The faster network supports real-time streaming, e-learning, and smart agriculture solutions, further enhancing Kenya’s digital transformation.
The telco plans to expand 5G infrastructure to cover more towns and industries. This move will ensure that businesses, health sectors, and individuals continue benefiting from fast, stable internet connections.
Customer-Centric Innovations Fuel Growth
Safaricom continues to invest in user-friendly apps, seamless self-care portals, and AI-powered customer service tools. These features ensure that users not only access digital services but also enjoy an easy, responsive experience.
Digital literacy campaigns, often rolled out via schools and community centers, play a vital role in onboarding new users. Through consistent innovation, Safaricom is empowering more Kenyans to take part in the digital economy.
Conclusion: Safaricom’s Digital Vision Shaping Kenya’s Future
Safaricom’s efforts in pushing smartphone usage have been transformative. With 48.2 million users and growing, the telecom giant is setting the pace in Africa’s digital journey. As more people embrace smartphones, Kenya is well on its way to becoming a fully connected, tech-driven nation.
Safaricom’s long-term vision remains clear: empower every Kenyan through digital inclusion. By eliminating barriers to connectivity, the company is reshaping livelihoods, enhancing access to information, and driving national
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Stifin Korlan
July 17, 2025A senior editor for The Mars that left the company to join the team of Barfi as a news editor and content creator. An artist by nature who enjoys video games, guitars, action figures, cooking, painting, drawing and good music.