Nairobi, Kenya – November 9, 2024: Watu Simu has reintroduced several Samsung smartphone models that were suspended in July this year due to security concerns. Starting today, the popular Samsung A05 and A15 models are once again available in the Watu Simu financing lineup, along with newly introduced models like the Samsung A06.
The new lineup will be accessible across key regions in Kenya, including Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kwale, providing more choice to customers in these areas.
The reintroduction comes after a four-month suspension that was implemented in July as Watu Simu and Samsung Electronics East Africa tackled security issues associated with certain Samsung A15 models.
The decision to suspend sales of the Samsung A15 series, including the A155F/DSN and the A15 5G, was driven by a commitment to customer security and satisfaction. The temporary halt was designed to address potential risks and allow Samsung and Watu Simu to implement new safety protocols in response to identified security vulnerabilities.
Resolving Security Concerns
The original suspension of Samsung models came as a surprise to customers and dealers alike. In July, Watu Simu cited the need for “decisive actions specifically around addressing the security concerns” associated with the Samsung A15, including models with 128GB storage and either 4GB or 6GB of RAM.
The company reassured customers that the measure was temporary, with both Samsung and Watu Simu dedicated to quickly and thoroughly addressing the issues to protect users and ensure product reliability.
Over the past four months, Watu Simu has worked closely with Samsung to introduce necessary security updates and protocols, which are now in place for all reintroduced models.
A spokesperson from Watu Simu commented, “Our partnership with Samsung is built on a foundation of customer trust and product excellence. We took this temporary suspension seriously, working closely with Samsung to implement the necessary safeguards. We are confident that these reintroduced models meet the highest standards of safety, allowing us to once again offer these popular devices to our customers.”
New Pricing and Down Payment
With the reintroduction, Watu Simu has unveiled the following models, offering competitive pricing and financing options to Kenyan consumers. Each model carries a 17% interest rate and down payment requirements as follows:
- Samsung A05 (128GB/4GB): Down Payment – Ksh. 4,500
- Samsung A05s (64GB/4GB): Down Payment – Ksh. 5,700
- Samsung A05s (128GB/4GB): Down Payment – Ksh. 6,200
- Samsung A15 (128GB/4GB): Down Payment – Ksh. 7,800
- Samsung A15 (128GB/6GB): Down Payment – Ksh. 8,500
In addition, Watu Simu has expanded its lineup to include new devices aimed at broadening consumer options in the affordable and mid-range segments:
- Samsung A06 (64GB/4GB): Down Payment – Ksh. 5,200
- Samsung A06 (128GB/4GB): Down Payment – Ksh. 5,700
These models are expected to appeal to a wide range of consumers, particularly those seeking high-quality, feature-rich smartphones through flexible financing. The newly introduced Samsung A06 series is positioned as a powerful yet affordable option, meeting the needs of users who require robust performance without breaking the bank.
Expansion Across Regions
The availability of these Samsung models is not limited to major urban centers; Watu Simu is making them accessible in multiple counties across Kenya, including Kwale, Mombasa, Kilifi, Tana River, Lamu, Kitui, Makueni, Taita Taveta, Nairobi, and Machakos. By extending this offering to more areas, Watu Simu is emphasizing its goal of enhancing access to affordable, high-quality technology for consumers throughout the country.
Watu Simu has encouraged its partners, including Biashara Place Ltd and others, to communicate these product updates to their regional teams to facilitate a smooth and effective reintroduction. These partnerships are integral to ensuring that customers in diverse regions can benefit from Watu Simu’s flexible payment terms and product offerings.
