Outrage as Kenyans Accuse Safaricom of Partnering with Onfon Mobile Limited to Defraud Lipa Mdogo Mdogo Phone Buyers

Outrage is mounting among Kenyans after hundreds of Lipa Mdogo Mdogo phone users accused Safaricom of partnering with Onfon Mobile Limited in an arrangement they claim has left many financially strained and digitally disconnected.

The anger follows a recent incident in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD), where small-scale traders protested after their phones were abruptly locked despite making regular daily payments to Onfon Mobile.

The affected devices were acquired under Safaricom’s Lipa Mdogo Mdogo financing model, which allows customers to obtain smartphones through small daily payments.

Onfon Mobile has a partnership with Safaricom aimed at making affordable 4G smartphones, such as the Neon Ultra 2, accessible to more Kenyans. Through Safaricom’s Lipa Mdogo Mdogo programme, customers can acquire internet-enabled devices by paying between KSh 90 and KSh 120 per day.

The initiative has been widely promoted as a solution for low-income earners seeking affordable access to smartphones and digital services.

However, affected traders now argue that the same system is being used to unfairly lock their phones even after payments are made.

 Many claim Safaricom’s involvement gave the programme credibility, leading them to trust the arrangement without suspicion.

“We would not have joined this if Safaricom was not involved,” said Kamau, a trader in Nairobi. “Payments go through Safaricom, so when my phone is locked after paying, I feel completely cheated.”

Another trader, Akinyi, said she had already paid thousands of shillings over several months but suddenly lost access to her device.

“This phone is my business tool. Once it was locked, I could not call customers or suppliers. No one is explaining where our money goes,” she said.

Some traders reported that their phones were temporarily unlocked after visiting Onfon Mobile offices, only for the devices to lock again minutes later.

 Others said repeated payment attempts failed to reflect on their accounts, leaving them unable to use essential phone services.

"This system punishes us even when we follow the rules,” said Odhiambo. “If you delay, the phone locks immediately. But when you pay on time, the system still fails.”

The protests caused tension outside Onfon Mobile’s CBD offices as traders demanded refunds, permanently unlocked devices, or clear explanations.

Many reported losing income due to missed business opportunities.

Central Police Station Commander Philip Nyakombo confirmed that investigations are ongoing following multiple complaints from affected users.

While Lipa Mdogo Mdogo phones are fitted with software that automatically locks devices when payments delay, users now allege the system is being misused.

As pressure grows, Kenyans are calling on Safaricom to clarify its role in the partnership and urging regulators to investigate Onfon Mobile Limited to protect low-income phone buyers who depend on these devices for their livelihoods.