How to Apply for Safaricom’s Lipa Mdogo Mdogo and Get a 4G Smartphone in 2023

Internet access is a vital resource in the modern world, but not everyone can afford a device that can connect to the Internet. The high cost of smartphones, especially those that are 4G-enabled, is one of the biggest obstacles to fast and reliable internet access. To address this challenge, Safaricom partnered with Google and introduced a device financing service called Lipa Mdogo Mdogo in July 2020. This was in a bid to increase smartphone penetration and internet access in Kenya. 

What is Lipa Mdogo Mdogo?

Lipa Mdogo Mdogo, which means “pay little by little” in Kiswahili, is a service that enables eligible customers to get a 4G-enabled smartphone of their choice by making a small deposit and then making daily payments of as little as Kshs 20 for up to 12 months. It is a convenient and affordable way for customers to upgrade their phones and enjoy the benefits of the internet. The smartphones come with Google Go apps, optimized for low data consumption and fast performance. 

List of Lipa Mdogo Mdogo Phones

Lipa Mdogo Mdogo offers a variety of 4G smartphones that suit different needs and preferences. Here are some of the devices you can get, the deposit for each device, and the daily repayment amounts.

Requirements Needed to Apply for a Lipa Mdogo Mdogo Smartphone

Lipa Mdogo Mdogo is available for prepaid customers only. Here are the requirements needed:

• You must be 18 years old or older and have a valid Identification card
• You must be using a 2G or 3G smartphone
• You must not be listed on CRB
• You must have been a Safaricom customer for at least 1 year
• You must not have any outstanding loans or debts, e.g., Okoa Jahazi or Fuliza

How to Apply for a Lipa Mdogo Mdogo Smartphone

Applying for Lipa Mdogo Mdogo is easy and convenient. You can do it from your current phone without visiting any Safaricom shop or agent. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Opt-in

The first step is to opt into the Lipa Mdogo Mdogo service. To opt in, dial *544# on your Safaricom line, then select “Lipa Mdogo” and select “Opt-In.”

Step 2: Check your eligibility 

Safaricom offers various devices with varying prices and specs. You may either qualify for all the devices available or not qualify for a single one. This depends on various factors, such as your credit score or CRB status. 

To check your eligibility, dial *544# and select “Lipa Mdogo”. Then choose “Devices you qualify for.” You will see a list of devices you qualify to borrow.

Step 3: Select a device 

The next step is to choose one device from the list of devices you qualify for. Once you do so, you will see more details about the device, including its down payment, daily payment, and total price. You can also select the colour of the device if it’s available in multiple colours.

Step 4: Select a collection point and pay a deposit 

Once you have selected your preferred device, you need to select your preferred collection point, and then pay a deposit via M-Pesa. You can either collect your device from a Safaricom shop or a dealer. 

After confirming your preferred collection point, enter your M-Pesa PIN to pay for the deposit. The amount varies from one device to another, and it will be deducted from your M-Pesa balance. After that, you will receive a confirmation message with a unique code that you will use to collect your device.

Step 5: Start the repayment plan 

After paying the deposit, you can collect your device from your chosen collection point. You will be given your device after showing your ID card and the confirmation message with the unique code. Once you have your device, you can start using it as you make your daily repayments via M-Pesa. The amount depends on the price of your device.

That’s how you can apply for a 4G-enabled smartphone from Safaricom’s Lipa Mdogo Mdogo service. Please note that the phone remains Safaricom’s property until you clear all the payments. If you fail to make your daily payments, Safaricom will lock your device, and you won’t be able to use it for calls, SMS, or other functions. And if you don’t make a payment after 30 days, you’ll be put on a blacklist and reported to the Credit Reference Bureau (CRB).