MTN South Africa has launched a groundbreaking initiative aimed at boosting digital inclusion by offering affordable 4G smartphones to more than 1.2 million prepaid customers. Priced at just R99, the initiative targets low-income households that still rely on outdated 2G and 3G networks, and encourages a shift to more efficient and faster 4G technology. This move is a critical step in preparing for the national shutdown of 2G and 3G services, planned for December 31, 2027.
The program is being rolled out in three phases. The first phase began in May 2025, where 5,000 selected customers in Gauteng province received a 5.5-inch Itel smartphone. Selection criteria included usage behavior, spending history, and account tenure. In the second phase, the program will expand to over 130,000 users across the country. The third and final phase will see distribution to more than 1.1 million additional customers, extending the reach of this digital empowerment effort nationwide.
This initiative also supports South Africa’s broader efforts to reallocate valuable radio spectrum for modern 4G and 5G networks. By offering these smartphones at such a low cost, MTN is proactively preventing the digital divide from growing as legacy networks are phased out. Many low-income individuals and communities remain digitally excluded due to the high costs of smartphones. MTN’s plan is to make modern connectivity accessible to all, regardless of income.
While customers pay only R99 for the device, the true cost per unit to MTN—including delivery, support, marketing, and partner incentives—ranges between R150 and R190. The devices being offered typically retail between R800 and R1,100, meaning MTN is absorbing a significant portion of the cost to support the program’s objectives.
Charles Molapisi, CEO of MTN South Africa, emphasized the company’s commitment to digital equity: “At MTN, we are committed to going the extra mile to ensure that no one is left behind in the digital revolution. Connectivity is a basic human right, and we want to give everyone a fair shot at participating in the digital economy.”
MTN’s affordable 4G smartphone initiative is a strong example of corporate responsibility aligning with technological progress. By providing accessible tools for digital access, MTN is not only enhancing its customer base but also contributing meaningfully to South Africa’s digital transformation.
Sources:
- MTN South Africa aims to boost 4G adoption with budget smartphones – Reuters
https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/mtn-south-africa-aims-boost-4g-adoption-with-budget-smartphones-2025-05-05/ - MTN South Africa to roll out budget smartphones to boost 4G adoption – Business Insider Africa
https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/markets/mtn-south-africa-to-roll-out-budget-smartphones-to-boost-4g-adoption/89nby79 - MTN to offer R99 4G smartphones to 1.2 million customers in SA – Current Affairs ZA
https://currentaffairsza.com/2025/05/05/mtn-to-offer-r99-4g-smartphones-to-1-2-million-customers-in-south-africa/ - MTN launches R99 smartphones to bridge digital divide in SA – BBrief
https://www.bbrief.co.za/2025/05/06/mtn-launches-r99-smartphones/ - MTN Press Release
https://www.mtnbusiness.co.za/en/Pages/Press-detail.aspx?queryString=mtntooffer4gsmartphonesforr99toover12millioncustomersinsouthafrica
