Jumia has entered into a new partnership with Watu Credit aimed at making smartphones more affordable for Kenyans. The collaboration between the pan-African e-commerce giant and the financing group allows customers to purchase devices through flexible payment plans, including daily, weekly, or monthly instalments via mobile money.
The initiative uses Watu Credit’s IoT-enabled lending model, which ensures that devices remain active only when payments are made. If instalments are missed, the smartphone is automatically locked. Since 2022, Watu Credit has financed close to two million devices across Kenya, and this new partnership is expected to expand access to premium brands such as Samsung for both first-time buyers and those seeking upgrades.
Smartphones are among Jumia’s most popular products, yet a significant number of Kenyans still rely on basic devices due to cost barriers. With smartphone penetration in the country nearing 80 per cent, the ability to spread payments could bridge the affordability gap while opening up new opportunities for work, education, healthcare access, and digital literacy.
Initially, the service will be offered through agent-assisted purchases before being rolled out as a fully online process. Customers will be able to select devices on Jumia, complete digital verification, and have their phones delivered directly to their homes.
The partnership comes at a time when smartphones are increasingly vital to economic participation. From supporting entrepreneurs and students to enabling gig workers and families, access to reliable devices is central to Kenya’s growing digital economy. For Jumia and Watu, the arrangement also unlocks a lucrative market through buy-now-pay-later options that align with responsible lending practices while meeting consumer demand for affordable technology.
