The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | In a bold effort to democratize digital access, MTN Uganda has launched the Kabode Supa smartphone—an enhanced device available through its flagship “Mpola Mpola” device-financing scheme.
With an upfront cost of just Shs 45,000 and daily payments as low as Shs 900, the telecom giant is rewriting the affordability narrative for Uganda’s smartphone market, executives said on April 11 in Kampala.
This disruptive pricing model isn’t merely a nod to inclusivity; it’s a strategic business move that expands MTN’s presence in a mobile-first economy. The Kabode Supa is equipped with features tailored to the needs of Uganda’s digitally ambitious population: a larger battery, increased RAM, and an 8 MP rear camera. What sets this device apart, however, is not just the technology but the overall experience—it includes 16GB of free data spread over eight months, ensuring customers not only own a smartphone but also engage meaningfully in the digital economy.
MTN’s Acting Chief Marketing Officer, Mackinon Kabarole, presents the device as more than a gadget: “It’s a digital lifeline for students, entrepreneurs, and dreamers across Uganda.” That lifeline is supported by automated, tax-inclusive payment systems and a nationwide availability network, removing barriers to ownership and usage. Eligibility checks are just a USSD code away, reinforcing MTN’s commitment to seamless accessibility.
This move transcends corporate altruism. The Kabode Supa serves as a strategic tool in MTN’s broader objective to onboard millions more into its ecosystem. With over 2 million Ugandans already benefiting from the Mpola Mpola scheme, the Supa rollout acts as both a customer acquisition initiative and a strategy for deeper market penetration. MTN is not just selling smartphones; it is cultivating a digitally enabled consumer base that is ready for data, mobile money, and fintech services.
By placing a fully functional smartphone in the hands of everyday Ugandans and providing reliable connectivity, MTN Uganda is making a high-stakes bet on inclusive innovation. If uptake aligns with projections, the Kabode Supa could become the defining device of Uganda’s digital evolution—and MTN, its chief architect.
