MTN MoMo Launches Handset Rent-to-Own to Boost Digital Inclusion in South Africa
Driven by a clear customer-first philosophy and a relentless pursuit of innovation, this offering empowers users especially the unbanked and underserved to own a 4G or 5G smartphone affordably, from as little as R10 a day, with no credit checks or paperwork required.
In a bold move to redefine digital inclusion, MTN MoMo South Africa has launched another bold initiative, Handset Rent-to-Own solution, designed to break down barriers and put the power of connectivity directly into the hands of millions of South Africans.
Driven by a clear customer-first philosophy and a relentless pursuit of innovation, this offering empowers users, especially the unbanked and underserved to own a 4G or 5G smartphone affordably, from as little as R10 a day, with no credit checks or paperwork required.
“We’re not just launching another product, we’re changing the game. Smartphones are gateways to opportunity, education, and financial inclusion. By enabling rent-to-own through the MTN MoMo App, we’re placing that gateway into more hands than ever before.”
– Kagiso Mothibi, CEO: Fintech SA, MTN South AfricaÂ
This new offering follows MTN’s recent rollouts of Smartphone For All and Shesh@ 5G SIM Delivery, reinforcing the company’s mission to drive innovation that serves real, everyday needs. It is a direct response to the digital divide and a challenge to the status quo of smartphone affordability in South Africa.
Powered by MTN’s trusted fintech platform in partnership with Airvantage, the service uses advanced AI-driven affordability assessments – with no payslip, no credit check history required. The process is smart, secure, and tailored to the realities of South Africa’s informal and underbanked economy.
Once approved, customers choose a flexible payment plan – either three, six, nine or twelve months and once payments are complete, the device is theirs to own, forever.
“This is what customer-first innovation looks like. We’re bringing people into the digital world with dignity, simplicity, and flexibility.”
– Kagiso Mothibi, CEO: Fintech SA, MTN South AfricaÂ
“Together with MTN, we’re using data science and fintech to democratise access to smartphones. It’s technology with purpose, at scale.”
– Tandi Kuper, CEO, Airvantage
The launch phase features 4G enabled Samsung smartphones, with more trusted brands set to follow.
How it works:
- Download or open the MTN MoMo App
- Select Handset Rent-to-Own
- Apply with a few simple taps
- Pay a small deposit
- Choose your payment plan (3, 6, 9 or 12 months)
- Receive your device
- Own it outright after final payment
With this launch, MTN continues to prove that innovation isn’t about gadgets, it’s about impact. It’s about people. And it’s about time.
