TechPression

Tag: Airtel Kenya

  • Airtel Kenya targets low-storage device users with new Lite App

    Airtel Kenya targets low-storage device users with new Lite App

    Airtel Kenya has launched Airtel Lite, a Progressive Web App (PWA) designed for users with low-storage smartphones.

    Announced on Tuesday, this innovative app aims to enhance accessibility and efficiency for Airtel customers.

    Read also: Airtel Africa enlists Simi, Fally Ipupa, Diamond Platnumz to promote #SmartaWithData campaign

    Features of Airtel Lite

    Airtel Lite is tailored to address the challenges many smartphone users face in Kenya, particularly those with limited storage and processing capabilities.

    Unlike traditional applications that require installation, Airtel Lite operates directly through a web browser, eliminating the need for device storage space.

    This feature is especially beneficial for users reliant on USSD services who are concerned about data consumption.

    The app allows users to perform essential functions such as checking balances, recharging airtime, purchasing bundles, and managing mobile money transactions without incurring data costs.

    During the launch, Airtel Kenya Managing Director Ashish Malhotra stated, “Our research revealed that many Kenyans still face challenges such as limited storage space and data usage in the use of their smartphones.

    Airtel Lite is our innovative solution, designed to remove these barriers and ensure a seamless, accessible digital experience for all”.

    Read also: Telkom Kenya, Rakuten Symphony, Airspan partner on Open RAN testing, knowledge transfer

    Commitment to Digital Inclusion

    Airtel Lite also represents a significant step towards promoting digital inclusion in Kenya. Providing a lightweight and user-friendly alternative to the My Airtel app facilitates the transition from traditional services to modern digital solutions.

    Malhotra emphasised that “Airtel Lite is a gateway to digital empowerment for millions of Kenyans. By ensuring that every customer, no matter their device, can access our services, we are making sure that no one is left behind in the country’s digital transformation journey”.

    This initiative aligns with Airtel’s broader goals of enhancing customer experience and expanding access to mobile banking and digital payments, particularly in underserved areas.

     With Airtel Lite now available through browsers at zero data charges, the company aims to bridge the gap for users who have historically faced barriers in accessing digital services.

    For more information or to access Airtel Lite, customers can visit lite.airtelkenya.com

  • Airtel Kenya slashes prices for ‘Tubonge’ voice bundles

    Airtel Kenya slashes prices for ‘Tubonge’ voice bundles

    Airtel Kenya recently responded to the Communication Authority of Kenya’s reduction in Mobile Termination Rates with exciting news for its customers.

    The company announced a significant reduction in the prices of its popular weekly and monthly ‘Tubonge’ voice bundles, aiming to provide more affordable options for staying connected.

    Airtel Kenya’s move to lower the prices of its voice bundles reflects its commitment to increased affordability, flexibility, and value for its customer base. This strategic pricing adjustment aligns with the company’s goal of providing cost-effective and convenient communication solutions.

    Read also: Airtel Kenya, ATC Kenya to provide Internet access to 50 primary schools

    Airtel Kenya, a leading telecommunications company in the Kenyan market, has always prioritised providing value and convenience to its customers. Recently, the Communications Authority of Kenya announced a reduction in Mobile Termination Rates, which prompted Airtel Kenya to respond proactively by offering more affordable options to its subscribers.

    Airtel Kenya’s Commitment to Customer Satisfaction

    The joint announcement by Airtel Kenya’s Marketing Director, Prisca Murigu, and Managing Director, Ashish Malhotra, underscores the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction. By reducing the prices of its Tubonge voice bundles, Airtel Kenya aims to enable its customers to talk more for less, fostering stronger connections and enhancing the overall user experience.

    In today’s highly competitive telecommunications industry, customer retention and satisfaction are paramount. Airtel Kenya understands this well and continually seeks ways to improve its offerings and meet the evolving needs of its customer base.

    The reduced prices of the Tubonge Voice bundles represent a win-win scenario for both Airtel Kenya and its customers. Customers can enjoy more affordable communication options, while the company can potentially attract new users and retain existing ones through enhanced value propositions.

    Airtel Kenya is evolving with technology and connectivity

    Airtel Kenya’s strategic pricing approach not only focuses on affordability but also emphasises the importance of maintaining high-quality services. Despite lowering prices, the company remains committed to delivering reliable and seamless connectivity experiences to its customers.

    Read also: Telkom Kenya suffers massive subscriber loss

    As technology evolves and connectivity becomes increasingly vital, telecommunications companies are crucial in facilitating communication and connectivity. Airtel Kenya recognises this responsibility and continues to invest in infrastructure and service enhancements to meet growing demands.

    The joint announcement by Airtel Kenya’s top executives also highlights the transparency and accountability within the company. By openly communicating pricing adjustments and value additions, Airtel Kenya builds trust with its customer base, fostering long-term relationships and loyalty.

    In conclusion, Airtel Kenya’s response to the reduced Mobile Termination Rates demonstrates its proactive approach to providing value-driven solutions to customers.

  • Airtel Kenya, ATC Kenya to provide Internet access to 50 primary schools

    Airtel Kenya, ATC Kenya to provide Internet access to 50 primary schools

    Airtel Kenya, a leading telecommunications company in the country, has joined forces with ATC Kenya to provide internet access to 50 primary schools.

     This partnership aims to bridge the digital divide and empower students with access to online educational resources. By leveraging Airtel’s extensive network infrastructure and ATC Kenya’s expertise in telecommunications infrastructure, this initiative seeks to revolutionize education delivery in Kenya.

    Read also: COMESA launches Investigation into ATC, Airtel

    Impact on Education Access and Quality

    The partnership between Airtel Kenya and ATC Kenya holds immense potential to enhance education access and quality across Kenya. By equipping 50 primary schools with internet access, students will have the opportunity to explore a wealth of educational content and resources available online. This access not only enriches their learning experiences but also prepares them for a digitally driven future.

    Furthermore, the availability of internet connectivity opens doors to innovative teaching methods and collaborative learning opportunities. Teachers can integrate technology into their lesson plans, making education more engaging and interactive. Students can access educational videos, virtual simulations, and online tutorials to supplement their classroom learning. This holistic approach to education fosters critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills among students, empowering them to thrive in the digital age.

    Moreover, internet connectivity in schools enables access to online assessment tools and e-learning platforms, facilitating personalized learning experiences tailored to individual student needs. This personalized approach ensures that every student receives the support and resources necessary to achieve academic success. Additionally, the partnership between Airtel Kenya and ATC Kenya promotes digital literacy among students, equipping them with essential skills for the 21st-century workforce.

    Addressing Challenges and Ensuring Sustainability

    While the partnership between Airtel Kenya and ATC Kenya promises significant benefits, it also poses challenges that need to be addressed to ensure its sustainability. One of the primary challenges is the maintenance and upkeep of the telecommunications infrastructure required to provide internet access to schools. Both companies must invest in regular maintenance and upgrades to ensure reliable connectivity and prevent downtime.

    Furthermore, ensuring internet safety and security in schools is crucial to protect students from online threats such as cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and data breaches. Airtel Kenya and ATC Kenya must implement robust cybersecurity measures and provide training to educators and students on safe internet usage practices.

    Additionally, the partnership must address the issue of digital inequality by ensuring that internet access reaches underserved communities and marginalized groups. This may require extending the reach of telecommunications infrastructure to remote areas and providing subsidies or discounts on internet services to low-income families.

    Moreover, collaboration with government agencies, educational institutions, and community organizations is essential to garner support for the initiative and leverage additional resources. By fostering partnerships at the local, regional, and national levels, Airtel Kenya and ATC Kenya can amplify the impact of their efforts and create a sustainable model for expanding internet access in schools across Kenya.

    The partnership between Airtel Kenya and ATC Kenya to provide internet access to 50 primary schools represents a significant step towards enhancing education access and quality in Kenya. By leveraging telecommunications infrastructure and digital technology, this initiative empowers students with access to a world of educational opportunities. However, to ensure its long-term success, Airtel Kenya and ATC Kenya must address challenges related to infrastructure maintenance, internet safety, digital inequality, and community engagement. Through strategic partnerships and collaborative efforts, they can create a sustainable model that transforms education and unlocks the potential of Kenya’s future generation.

  • Airtel Kenya set to add additional 349 network locations

    Airtel Kenya set to add additional 349 network locations

    Airtel Kenya, a subsidiary of Airtel Africa, intends to enhance its network coverage by adding 349 additional locations by the end of the year. 

    The company says it plans to install another 300 locations so it can keep up with the rising demand for data services throughout the nation. 

    Airtel Kenya’s current network architecture consists of approximately 3200 sites covering 89% of the nation and all 47 counties. 

    “At Airtel, we are driven by an unwavering dedication to growth and innovation. Our mission is to accelerate our customers towards a future they can only dream of while simultaneously exceeding their expectations for the here and now. At a news conference conducted at its Airtel Offices in Nairobi not too long ago, Mr Sunil Bharti Mittal, Chairman of Bharti Airtel, made the following statement.

    Through continuous improvement of our network’s architecture and capabilities, we want to help close the digital gap and increase the potential of people, organizations, and whole communities. We understand that the needs of our customers are ever-evolving, and we are dedicated to staying one step ahead, anticipating their desires and providing solutions that surpass their dreams,” he added.

    Read also: Airtel Kenya Establishes Airtel Money as a Separate Business Entity

    The telco has 27.2% market share

    Airtel Kenya has said that it has adopted technologies and innovations in order to strengthen connections, improve service quality, and deliver a stable network. 

    This is in recognition of the issues that are encountered by consumers who live in locations with poor network access. Some of these initiatives include the launch of VOLTE and Esim, the rolling out of small cell/street solutions in highly populated regions like the Eastland, and the deployment of LTE on the 2600Mhz band for capacity expansion and potential 5G rollout.

    Mr Olusegun Ogunsanya, Group CEO of Airtel Africa, has said, “We are committed to providing our customers with a network that reaches every corner of Kenya.” The growth of our network is motivated by our commitment to providing superior data service to all of our clients, wherever they may be. We are committed to delivering on our promise of seamless communication by continually investing in cutting-edge technology and innovations that boost connection and service quality.

    Airtel Kenya Separates Itself From Airtel money

    While the company’s intentions to expand its network will help it gain a stronger foothold in the market, it also promises to continue providing Kenyans with affordable rates and tariff plans.

    Adding to that, the telco’s network expansion initiative is to enhance connectivity and to improve service quality to its millions of users in the country, estimated at 16.2 million subscribers of the total 59.8 million subscribers in the Kenyan market, equivalent to 27.2% of market share. Coming in behind market leader Safaricom, which controls 67% of the mobile market.

  • Airtel Kenya Establishes Airtel Money as a Separate Business Entity

    Airtel Kenya Establishes Airtel Money as a Separate Business Entity

    The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) and Airtel Kenya have officially completed the separation process for Airtel Money from its parent company. Airtel Money will hence operate differently from Airtel Kenya’s core telecoms business in charge of the call, data, and SMS business.

    Airtel Kenya’s separation means the fund’s transfer platform will now be known as Airtel Money Kenya Limited, while the calls and data subsidiary will be called Airtel Networks Kenya Limited.

    This marked the first mobile money product that was heading in that direction, bearing in mind that other mobile money services will be split from their mother companies before the year ends or by early 2023.

    Read also: Airtel Kenya Announces New Managing Director
    The Central Bank of Kenya has also been pushing the split agenda alongside other agencies and members of Parliament. The plan is to ideally run mobile money services as different entities that the said CBK will regulate.

    Following CBK’s push for customer-centric policies in the telecommunications industry, Airtel Networks Kenya Limited (ANKL) has separated the two arms since 2019.
    “The completion of this restructuring enables AMKL to ring-fence its operations and focus exclusively on its mobile money business. Significantly, this sets the foundation for AMKL to enhance governance over its mobile money business, strengthen its operations, and offer better services to its customers,” the CBK said in a statement.

    This effort will facilitate the realization of the vision in the National Payments Strategy 2022 – 2025 of “a secure, fast, efficient and collaborative payments system that supports financial inclusion and innovations that benefit Kenyans.”

    About Airtel Money Kenya Limited

    Airtel Kenya and Airtel Money are incorporated in Kenya. They are subsidiaries of Airtel Africa, which is headquartered in Dubai. Airtel Africa runs operations in 14 African states.
    Airtel Money Kenya Limited is a Private Limited Liability Company incorporated in Kenya under company registration number PVT-JZU77XQ. It is licensed and regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya and holds an Authorization to conduct or carry out the business of payments services in Kenya issued by the Central Bank of Kenya on 21st January 2022.
    In June, Airtel Kenya sold 25.77 per cent of its mobile money product Airtel Money in a deal that sought to raise more cash for the company’s operations.

    The sale saw four companies give Airtel Kenya $550 million after the transaction. They were Rise Fund, which invested $200 million, followed by Mastercard at $100 million. Qatar Holding LLC invested $200 million, while Chimera Investment LLC parted with $50 million to round up the stake’s purchase.

    Airtel Kenya is the second largest mobile services operator in Kenya, with a 16.9 million subscriber base.

    Airtel Networks Kenya Limited and Airtel Money Kenya Limited are fully owned subsidiaries of Airtel Africa plc, licensed and regulated by the Communications Authority of Kenya and the Central Bank of Kenya.

    Customers continuing to use the service will automatically be seen as accepting of the change and the customer data sharing between Airtel Money and Airtel Networks.
    Airtel Money as an entity enables more independence for the mobile money unit to act more independently to strengthen operations and grow its customer base.

    Airtel Nigeria Invests in Network Infrastructure Upgrades

    Fintech Privacy Case In Kenya

    Through the Central Bank of Kenya, the Kenyan government is on a mission to clean up the financial technology services industry to eliminate illegal operators.

    Kenya’s Office of the Data Protection Commission (ODPC) reported that it received 1,030 complaints and accepted 555, of which 299 were directed against financial technology services firms that had misappropriated customers’ personal data.
    The Commission, ODPC, has been directed to audit at least 40 fintech lenders for data breaches against their customers.

    The 40 fintech lenders that are being investigated have not been licensed by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK). In September, the CBK licensed only 10 digital lenders from a pool of 288 applicants who had applied for licenses in March.

    The ODPC said, “This is just one among many other complaints being investigated by the Office; we want to assure the public that the complaints received will be investigated and concluded accordingly.”

    Before 2021, many Fintech lenders operated in the country without licenses and regulations, which inflated unethical activities. The CBK then commenced mandating all Fintech lenders to register for new licenses. Those that didn’t meet the application requirements were banned from the industry. More than 60% of lenders are still being vetted by the CBK.

  • Airtel Kenya Separates Itself From Airtel money

    Airtel Kenya Separates Itself From Airtel money

     

    In a statement, Airtel Kenya announced that it has separated itself from its mobile money product, Airtel Money. Henceforth, Airtel money will be under the ownership of Airtel Money Kenya Limited.
    In a statement, the telecom group said:
    “Following this business separation, Airtel money Kenya Limited will take over and continue the provision of the Airtel money services in collaboration with the licensed telecommunications network of Airtel Networks Kenya Limited. The continued use of the Money Service shall be deemed as proof of the customer’s acceptance of the transfer of their Airtel Money Account and related Customer data and/or sharing of the customer Data between Airtel Money Kenya Limited and Airtel Networks Kenya Limited.
    In the Kenyan Market, Airtel Money comes second only behind Safaricom’s M-PESA, which has amassed over 99% of the market for itself.
    As Airtel Kenya has been separated from Airtel Money, it has been rumoured that M-PESA will be separated from Safaricom at one time in the distant future, but it has not yet been actualised.

    Read: Airtel Money Malawi marks a milestone of 1000 Branches

    In June 2022, due to funds needed to run the company’s operations, Airtel Kenya sold over 25% of its mobile money product, which saw them get $550 million after the transaction; the companies which bought the percentage from Airtel Kenya are:
    1) Rise Fund, which invested $200 million;
    2) Qatar Holding LLC also invested $200 million;
    3) MasterCard invested $100 million;
    4) Chimera Investment LLC invested $50 million to make the purchase.
    The Impact of Telecommunications on businesses in the African Economy
    Communication is a very essential part of our lives and can be done by anyone from toddlers to adults, but in business, there is a whole lot of importance attached to it and sometimes needs to be done by experts as it is considered one of the most important skills needed by any business owner.

    Read: Airtel Africa Applies to IFC for $194 Million loan

    Every business transaction requires one form of communication or the other. An employee may be talking to a department customer and forward some necessary information to another. Nothing can be done if communication isn’t done promptly and straightforwardly.
    Investing in telecommunications technology can be a very significant way to improve company performance and reach. Here are the benefits of telecommunications to businesses in Africa:

    It provides new ways to connect with clients and customers

    Telecommunications technologies provide a new avenue to communicate with clients or customers. For example, a company may purchase phones and other gadgets for sales representatives or support personnel (Customer service) to encourage direct contact with customers, which will create relationships. Hence, fostering long-term prosperity for both parties.

    Increased collaboration between colleagues

    Where there is no collaboration or a lack of communication among various departments of an organisation, it will bring about a lack of productivity and creativity.
    Collaboration is a vital tool expected to be used by companies to enhance their processes regarding the creative and innovative side of their products. To curb lack of communication, we have a lot of services which departments and teams can use to interact more with each other such as Telegram; Zoom for Video conferences; Google meets for Video conferences; WhatsApp Group for both messaging, voice calls and Video calls; Skype for video conference, Etc.
    Using these tools can give a company more ideas and remove the location barrier to holding or anchoring meetings among various teams and departments, hence improving the company.

    Better and faster internal communication

    Before the invention of phones, we used letters, which were very slow before it got to the recipient. The same is also with offices as people were always crowded in the walkways to pass information to fellow staff, causing disorganisation. This could be more stressful if the office of a fellow worker is located miles across the building or in another city. However, with the invention of communication devices such as phones, individuals can pass across information to a fellow worker even when on the other side of the planet, which brings about faster communication.

    It brings about greater flexibility in the workplace

    As stated above, when communication is made easier with the help of telecommunication gadgets. It brings about flexibility by giving employees more options on how, where and when they work; this means that workers can now work anywhere without any fear of communication issues. This also makes the planning stage easier by putting everyone on the same page through direct communication without the aid of third parties.

    Reduce misunderstandings and inefficiencies

    Modern offices have a lot of operations ongoing at the same moment, and if there is a lack of communication, it will be very difficult as a CEO or business owner to keep track of all ongoing operations. Lack of communication can also cause misunderstanding among workers, which can slow operations and lead to the company’s inefficiency.
    Getting telecommunication gadgets can be vital for companies as it provides workers with the opportunity to contact each other without any stress hence speeding up ongoing operations or ongoing projects. In summary, solid and standard telecommunications infrastructure provides employees with the resources they need to get immediate and direct information on problems that needs clarification to advance.

    It enhances teamwork among employees

    If employees of an organisation are not in co-operation, it will be very hard for the company to advance and rival its competitors in the market. To foster a closer relationship among your employees, communication will play a vital part because if they have access to these gadgets, it will improve faster communication amongst them hence fostering teamwork.

  • Airtel Kenya Announces New Managing Director

    Airtel Kenya Announces New Managing Director

    As the telecom prepares for its next stage of growth, Airtel Kenya has announced the appointment of a new managing director, Ashish Malhotra, who will start on July 1, 2022, to succeed long-serving MD Prasanta Das Sarma. As of June 30, 2022, Mr. Prasanta Das Sarma, who has held the job since January 2017, will transition to a new position as CEO of the Fiber Company for Airtel Africa.

    Mr. Ashish Malhotra previously served as Group Head of Sales and Marketing at Airtel Africa, where he oversaw the division’s operations in 14 nations. In this capacity, he helped the various nations develop strong distinctive selling propositions, streamline pricing systems, and double revenues.

    He graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce from Sri Ram College of Commerce in India and an MBA from Symbiosis Institute of Management Studies (SIMS), both in India.
    Malhotra has worked in the telecom industry for more than 21 years.

    According to Airtel, he was instrumental in the company’s rapid expansion in Kenya and helped push the customer base from 5 million to 16 million during his time there.
    14 African nations are served by Airtel Africa, predominantly in East, Central, and West Africa.

    According to market research firm Media, it is Kenya’s second-largest operator with a market share of approximately 25%, after dominating Safaricom, which has a market share of about 67%.

    Airtel Kenya New MD’s Journey Into Telecommunications 

    Mr. Ashish Malhotra began his career in telecommunications over 21 years. He started this journey as a product manager with BPL Moblie in August 2000 where he carried out this duty for a span of four years and 5 months.

    While serving as a product manager for BPL Mobile, he took up another role as the head of marketing for BPL Mobile Cellular Ltd (which is now known as Vodafone Essar), he commenced this role in 2003 alongside his role as a product manager for BPL mobile.
    After serving in this duo role for a year, he gave up his role as a product manager for BPL mobile in November 2004 and carried on a sole duty as the head of Marketing for BPL Mobile Cellular Ltd up until 2006.

     

    Read Also : MTC Begins Voluntary SIM Registration in Namibia

     

    This makes it a total of three years served as the head of marketing for BPL Mobile Cellular Ltd. He also serves as a Marketing Manager for HUTCH-Kerala from December 2005 through August 2006.

    Ashish Malhotra’s Entrance Into Airtel Networks Limited  

    With over six years of experience in telecommunications, Mr. Ashish Malhotra began another journey with Airtel. This was immediately after his nine-months appointment with HUTCH-Kerala. His first appointment was in India where he served as the Deputy General Manager for marketing on a prepaid appointment. His managerial role covered Airtel Maharashtra and Goa.

    He serves in this position for two years and eight months. After the end of his appointment in Airtel-Maharashtra and Goa, he took up another role the next month as the head of marketing – TN circle for Tata Docomo. He served Tata Docomo for three years and 10 months before his appointment ended in January 2013.

    February 2013 began a new phase of his career as he began professional engagement in Africa with Airtel-Ghana. After serving as the Vice President of the director of marketing in Airtel Ghana for a year, his service extended to Airtel Africa as a role.

    He began operations with Airtel Africa in Kenya as the Group VP in the head of Usage and Retention in February 2014 where he served till September 2015 for a total period of one year and nine months. He took up another appointment shortly afterward as the Chief Marketing Officer, a role he served for five years and a month from October 2015 to October 2020.

    He became the head of sales and marketing for Airtel Africa from October 2022 through July 2022. After a commendable service as the Head of Sales and Marketing for Airtel Africa, the telecom was glad to announce his promotion to Managing Director for Airtel Kenya. It jas been a worthwhile journey of 21 years into telecommunications.

    His skills include telecommunications, team management, cross-functional team leadership, product management, business development, leadership, management, customer lifecycle management, VAS, marketing, product marketing, key account management, competitive analysis, strategy, go-to-market strategy, brand management, Marketing manager, B2B marketing, retail marketing and a host of other related skills.

    Airtel Kenya ALso Announces A New Chairman 

    To jointly manage the company’s next stage of expansion, the Board of Airtel Networks Kenya Limited chose Louis Onyango Otieno as Chairman and Ashish Malhotra as Managing Director.

    With more than 30 years of ICT expertise in both the private and public sectors, Louis Onyango Otieno is a member of many powerful boards. The chairman of Absa Asset Management Limited is Mr. Otieno. Additionally, he serves as a non-executive independent director for Nation Media Group Plc and Absa Bank Kenya Plc.