Despite the government’s planned shutdown of the 2G and 3G spectrums, thousands of South Africans are still stuck on those decrepit 2G devices, denying them access to the flourishing and increasingly essential digital landscape. To help combat this, Vodacom is helping “preselected prepaid customers” upgrade their 2G smartphone to a modern 4G one for only R67, in honour of former President Nelson Mandela’s birthday.
That’s, like, 134 chappies, man
The programme, which kicked off today, will only be available in select Vodacom stores dotted around KwaZulu-Natal before expanding to Mpumalanga and Limpopo. The company doesn’t list which stores are included in the R67 promotion, nor does it offer any information on how long it’ll last. Best not to dawdle, then.
Vodacom hasn’t made it clear how it will determine the customer base worthy of the upgrade, but those included can pick up the Kicka 6 smartphone, valued at R700, for only R67. It will throw in a 20GB ‘Buy and Get’ data bundle to get them going, though it notes this offer is subject to a “R29 recharge criterion”.
“Millions of South Africans still rely on 2G devices, limiting their ability to access essential digital services, such as education, employment and financial services. By offering affordable 4G smartphones, we are empowering people to participate fully in the digital economy. Following Madiba’s legacy of 67 years of fighting for equality, we each have the power to make a positive impact. Vodacom is proud to turn that belief into action in the communities we serve,” said Rishaad Tayob of Vodacom South Africa.
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Even at the quoted R700 price, the Kicka 6 is a great deal for anyone looking to keep their budgets in check. It houses a reasonable 2,500mAh battery, 32GB of storage, two 5MP shooters located on the device’s front and back ends, and a 5.45in display to cap it all off. It won’t keep up with something from Samsung, but it isn’t trying to.
Vodacom’s taking the celebration a step further, with plans to hand out 67 free smartphones to those still clutching a 2G handset. You’ll need to participate in the carrier’s ‘Daily V-Up journey’ via the Vodacom app to be selected, and must visit the Vodacom World Store in Mindrand to trade in your 2G device.
“Our Mandela Month promotions support our ongoing purpose-led efforts to offer affordable entry-level smartphones and handset financing solutions. By making 4G device ownership more accessible, we can connect everyone to a better future,” concludes Tayob.
