M-KOPA targets Ugandan SACCOs with smartphones to advance financial inclusion
Through its smartphone hire-purchase programme, M-KOPA has unlocked more than Shs 1 trillion in cumulative credit for over one million customers since launching in Uganda in 2014
KAMPALA, July 6, 2026 – After unlocking more than Shs 1 trillion in credit, M-KOPA Uganda is shifting its focus to Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations [SACCOs] as part of its efforts to deepen financial inclusion across the country.
By leveraging its digital technology, the company has expanded access to smartphones and digital financial services for communities that have traditionally been excluded from formal credit systems.
Through its smartphone hire-purchase programme, M-KOPA has unlocked more than Shs 1 trillion in cumulative credit for over one million customers since launching in Uganda in 2014.
According to an independently validated report by global impact consultancy Caribou, at least 53 percent of surveyed customers purchased their first smartphone through an M-KOPA loan facility.
The report launched recently in Kampala further found that 86 percent of customers use their smartphones to generate income, while another 86 percent reported an improved quality of life. In addition, 75 percent said their earnings had increased as a result of the services provided by M-KOPA.
M-KOPA Uganda General Manager Brendah Nambalirwa said the company is now directing its attention towards customers who belong to financial groups such as SACCOs and larger cooperatives in a bid to broaden financial inclusion.
“Our focus now will be on customers who belong to SACCOs to ensure they also gain access to our services,” she said. “SACCO members will also enjoy additional collective benefits.”
Nambalirwa added that discussions are already underway with several cooperatives, particularly those operating under the Parish Development Model [PDM], while engagements with larger SACCOs are progressing to deliver group-based benefits.
“The findings show that access to smartphones is no longer only about connectivity. For many customers, it is directly linked to income generation, financial inclusion and everyday opportunities,” she said.
Launched in Uganda in 2014 as a provider of pre-paid solar energy solutions, M-KOPA has since expanded its product portfolio to include smartphones, clean cookstoves and a range of solar-powered products, including radios, lights, solar panels and television sets.
In 2024, the company contributed more than Shs 20 billion in tax revenue and spent over Shs 120.8 billion on local procurement across Uganda.
M-KOPA also operates a nationwide network of more than 3,500 agents, creating employment opportunities for young people across the country.
The company has further unveiled two new customer upgrade benefits under its ‘More Than a Phone’ platform, aimed at improving affordability and flexibility for customers.
“The ‘More Than a Phone’ offering includes free daily data, cash loans, screen repair services and hospital insurance underwritten by Turaco Micro Insurance Company Ltd,” Nambalirwa said.
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