YAS, Watu Tanzania partner to extend smartphone access across the country

By Alfred Zacharia

Communication firm, YAS Tanzania has partnered with Watu Tanzania to roll out a nationwide initiative aimed at making smartphones more accessible and affordable for ordinary Tanzanians.

The initiative, implemented through Watu Simu, a mobile financing service, enables customers to acquire smartphones under friendly repayment plans via YAS and Mixx Express retail outlets.

Speaking during the launch, Mr Daniel Nnko, Head of Marketing and Sales Growth at YAS, said the partnership aligns with the company's vision to empower Tanzanians through digital connectivity.

“We believe every Tanzanian deserves access to tools that help them thrive in today’s digital world. Through this partnership, we’re making it easier for people to own smartphones and connect to our wide 4G and 5G network. Importantly, we won’t be charging transaction fees for customers making payments via Mixx,” he said.

The project has been rolled out in 63 YAS outlets nationwide, with plans to expand the service further. The first devices available under the scheme are the Samsung Galaxy A05 and A05s—budget-friendly smartphones designed to meet the everyday needs of Tanzanians.

Mr Moses Mtweve, Head of Phones at Watu Tanzania, said the initiative was part of a broader goal to promote financial inclusion through technology.

“We want to ensure that smartphones are not a luxury, but a basic, affordable tool for every Tanzanian. By merging Watu’s mobile financing model with YAS’s retail network, we expect to bring real transformation to how people access and use communication tools,” he said.

Customers can visit any participating YAS shop, pay a small deposit, and complete the balance in flexible instalments—daily, weekly, or monthly—through Watu’s digital system.

Samsung Tanzania, a key player in the partnership, expressed its support for the project. Mr Mgopelini Hamza Kiwanga, Head of Mobile at Samsung Tanzania, said the initiative supports the company’s efforts to make technology more inclusive.

“We’re pleased to partner with YAS and Watu Tanzania to give more people access to smart devices. The Galaxy A05 and A05s are affordable, reliable, and designed for the needs of Tanzanians. This partnership will create new opportunities for thousands,” he noted.

The collaboration is expected to serve thousands of customers by the end of 2025. All three partners—YAS, Watu Tanzania, and Samsung—expressed commitment to advancing digital inclusion and enhancing mobile connectivity across the country.