Airtel Kenya has announced a positive update for its customers by reducing excise duty rates on its telecommunication services. As part of this change, Airtel Kenya will decrease the excise duty from the current 20% to 15% for voice, data and SMS services, providing cost benefits to its customers. However, the transaction charges for Airtel money services will remain unchanged.
Telecom Operators
Uber Kenya Introduces M-PESA Payments for Ride Fares
Ride-hailing app Uber has recently introduced M-PESA payments on its platform, allowing riders to pay for their cab fare using Safaricom's mobile money service. This addition comes shortly after Uber Eats also introduced the same payment feature. The timing of this new service is welcomed, as customers have long been frustrated by the absence of this payment option.
MTN Rwandacell PLC Achieves First Certified Data Controller Distinction in Rwanda
MTN Rwandacell PLC and Mobile Money Rwanda Ltd., leading players in Rwanda's telecommunications sector, have achieved a significant milestone by receiving official certification as Data Controllers from the Data Protection and Privacy Office - Rwanda. This esteemed 5-year certification was granted in recognition of their adherence to all necessary requirements, making them the first certified telecom entities in Rwanda.
Etisalat Egypt and Ministry of Interior Launch Anticipated Civil Registry Office
In a momentous event held at their headquarters, Etisalat Egypt, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior, officially introduced the highly anticipated Civil Registry Office. The inauguration ceremony was honored by the esteemed presence of H.E. Dr. Amr Talaat, Minister of Communications and Information Technology.
Cell C Appoints New CMO to Drive Brand Transformation
Cell C has announced the appointment of Melanie Forbes as its new Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), effective August 1, 2023. Forbes brings over 25 years of extensive experience in the Telecommunications, IT and Consumer Electronics industries, having worked with renowned brands such as Philips, NetFlorist (NetActive), Siemens, Nokia (NSN) and, most recently, Vodacom. Her background spans both B2B and B2C markets across various African markets.
Ooredoo Group Names New CEO for Ooredoo Algeria
Ooredoo Q.P.S.C. (Ooredoo) — Ticker: ORDS — has announced the appointment of Roni Tohme as the new Chief Executive Officer of Ooredoo Algeria, effective August 1, 2023, after a successful interim period as the company’s acting CEO.
MTN Partners with Bboxx to Boost Smartphone Adoption in Rwanda
MTN Rwandacell PLC (MTN Rwanda) recently entered into a cooperation agreement with data platform Bboxx, aiming to accelerate smartphone adoption in Rwanda. Under this agreement, Bboxx will offer Rwandans simplified and accessible smartphone payment plans spanning six or twelve months. In return, MTN Rwanda will provide subscribers with SIM cards.
MTN Launches Uganda's First Commercial 5G Network
MTN Group, a prominent South African mobile phone company, is actively implementing its "Ambition 2025" strategy by deploying 5G technology across Africa. Notably, MTN has already introduced commercial ultra-broadband in South Africa, Nigeria and Zambia, while pilot phases are underway in other markets.
Etisalat Tops Speedtest Rankings as Egypt's Fastest Mobile Network
The world's leading broadband and mobile network speed testing company, Ookla, has announced that Etisalat has been rated as having the fastest mobile network in Egypt.
Safaricom Shareholders Approve New Subsidiaries to Support Tech Start-ups
Safaricom shareholders have given their approval for the establishment of two new subsidiaries — one dedicated to investing in seed-stage start-ups and another focused-on growth-stage start-ups. The approval, which took place during Safaricom's 15th Annual General Meeting (AGM), represents a significant milestone in supporting tech entrepreneurs and strengthening Safaricom's role as a key enabler of the Kenyan tech community.