Watu Simu: Financing Phones, Fueling Opportunity

In today’s fast-paced digital world, a smartphone is more than just a communication device; it’s a gateway to opportunity. Whether it’s accessing digital marketplaces, online education, or staying connected, smartphones play a critical role in economic and social inclusion.

Yet, millions of people in Kenya and across Africa remain excluded due to the high upfront costs of quality smartphones.

Watu Credit, a social enterprise with operations across Africa, is changing that narrative through its innovative product, Watu Simu. At the helm of this transformative journey in Kenya is Erick Massawe, a seasoned business leader and fintech executive who serves as the Country Manager for Watu Credit in Kenya.

Meet Erick Massawe: Leadership That Drives Impact

Erick Massawe brings a wealth of experience to his role at Watu Credit. Before joining the company, he served as the General Manager at M-KOPA, where he played a critical role in shaping the company’s commercial success.

With a career spanning sectors such as tourism, clean energy, and fintech, Massawe has consistently delivered results in high-growth environments.

Watu Simu: Financing Phones, Fueling Opportunity

A strong advocate for high-performance teams and positive organizational culture, he has built a track record of scaling impact-driven businesses while fostering talent and innovation. Massawe is also an accomplished global voice, having spoken at high-level forums hosted by the United Nations (UN), DFID, and SOCAP.

He holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration and Management from the Eastern and Southern African Management Institute (ESAMI) and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the Institute of Accountancy Arusha.

Why Watu Ventured into Smartphone Financing

According to Massawe, Watu Simu emerged from a strong social mission.

“Smartphones are tools of trade. Whether it’s a boda boda rider accessing ride-share apps or a mama mboga managing orders via WhatsApp, the smartphone is a productivity engine. Through Watu Simu, we’re opening doors to digital inclusion and entrepreneurship.”

By focusing exclusively on the financing part of the value chain, Watu avoids competing with dealers and instead empowers them. Today, the company works with over 2000 phone dealerships across Kenya, directly impacting businesses at the grassroots level.

A Win-Win Model for Dealers and Customers

Unlike other financing models that vertically integrate and maximize margins, Watu’s model ensures dealers are paid the full market price, plus an incentive. This unique approach has made Watu Simu the most preferred device financier in Kenya, leading in customer acquisition throughout 2025.

“Dealers push our product first because they earn more with us. That was intentional, we wanted to empower everyone in the ecosystem,” Massawe explains.

Real Stories, Tangible Impact

From students to small business owners, Watu Simu is transforming livelihoods:

An online taxi driver reported that his previous phone kept dropping signal, especially in remote Nairobi neighborhoods. After switching to a Watu-financed Samsung device, he saw a surge in business and efficiency.
University student leaders use Watu devices to coordinate campus events and access online learning tools.
Even farmers report better access to agricultural content through smartphones, boosting their yields.

“It’s not just about owning a phone, it’s about unlocking new possibilities,” says Massawe.

Watu Simu: Financing Phones, Fueling Opportunity

Expanding Digital Inclusion at Scale

Watu’s self-serve app has become a vital tool in its digital inclusion strategy. With over 2 million active users, the app allows users to manage payments, request support, and access services seamlessly.

“Digital inclusion starts with access, but it flourishes with understanding,” says Massawe. “By showing customers what a smartphone can do, beyond calls, we’re truly transforming lives.”

Ensuring Responsible Lending

Watu’s onboarding process includes KYC checks, customer education, and reinforcement calls to confirm understanding. If a customer chooses to withdraw, the device is returned without penalties, a rarity in the market.

“We’re a responsible lender. We don’t just want people to take loans, we want them to succeed with them,” he adds.

Powered by Technology

From paperless onboarding to AI-driven self-service, Watu Simu is built on a strong digital backbone. Key features include:

Pay-go functionality, where phones lock if payments lapse, ensuring credit security.
Machine learning and AI in customer support for scalable service delivery.
Real-time digital engagement through the Watu app.

Data-Driven Insights: What the Numbers Say

Recent customer surveys reveal:

Increased connectivity and social inclusion, especially for users upgrading from feature phones.
Improved income generation via digital platforms.
Strong use of smartphones in education, entertainment, and information access.

“Whether it’s reconnecting on WhatsApp or learning a new skill online, the phone becomes more than a device; it becomes a bridge to opportunity,” Massawe notes.

A Vision for Africa’s Digital Future

Looking ahead, Massawe is optimistic about Africa’s ability to innovate beyond global templates.

“We don’t have to adopt Silicon Valley’s solutions, we can customize for our realities. What does a Kenyan version of Airbnb or Uber look like? That’s where the future lies.”

He also encourages young people and SMEs to overcome their fear of technology.

“You don’t have to be a techie to benefit. Smartphones make tech simple and powerful. Dive in and watch your world expand.”

What Inspires Erick Massawe?

“I’m the kind of person who finds meaning in everything I do. Knowing that our work at Watu impacts millions of people, that we are part of their story, that’s what drives me. It’s fulfilling.”

Final Word

Watu Simu is not just a financial product; it’s a vehicle for transformation. By combining inclusive finance, smart technology, and grassroots partnerships, Watu Credit is helping to close the digital divide and unlock Africa’s full entrepreneurial potential.

To learn more about Watu Simu or become a partner, visit https://watuafrica.com

https://africabusinessnews.co.ke/tech-driven-security-watu-rolls-out-gps-trackers/