Telecom launches special device to help customers with hearing, visual impairments

DAR ES SALAAM: To enhance inclusivity and the use of smart digital products and services in the country, technology and communication company, Vodacom Tanzania has today introduced a new feature phone dubbed ‘Smart Kitochi’ designed to benefit customers with hearing and visual impairments.

Speaking at the launch event held in Dar es Salaam on Thursday, the company’s Consumer Business Unit Director, Ms. Linda Riwa, explained that this launch is part of the company’s continuous effort to promote inclusivity whilst supporting the government in its ambitions to accelerate the use of digital products and services.

“We are proud to take part in revolutionizing the provision of innovative digital products and services to reach our diverse customer base nationwide. Today, we are launching the unique feature phone dubbed Smart Kitochi +’ which, apart from features such as a large display and touch screen, significant data storage capacity and a long-lasting battery, it will benefit customers with hearing/visual impairments.

“This phone incorporates touch and voice technology, allowing customers with these challenges to now access our services without relying on assistance from others. This is a significant revolution in the telecommunication service delivery sector, considering that the government encourages service providers to adhere to inclusion in delivering services to our customers,” detailed Ms. Riwa.

The launch of this phone makes a unique entrance to the market compared to other models, with the ability to promote inclusivity in the use of digital communication services.

It also features unbeatable qualities such as a large display and touch screen (2.8”), substantial data storage of 8GB, and a long-lasting 3000mAh battery.

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This new version of ‘Smart Kitochi is a continuation of the company’s efforts to transition its customer base to digital usage, including the 4G network, which still has fewer users compared to the total number of mobile phone users in Tanzania.

“We take pride in being the leading network in the country, delivering innovative digital services to over 21 million customers. Having a large customer base alone is not enough; we want our customers to benefit from the ongoing digital revolution and the significant innovation we put into our products.

By introducing modern products like Smart Kitochi we believe we will encourage many more customers to transition from 2G-enabled devices and start enjoying various digital services provided by our high-speed 4G and 5G network spread across the country, ultimately advancing smartphone penetration that currently sits at 32 per cent,” she explained.

Commenting on the new device, Chairman of the Tanzania League of the Blind (TLB) Mr. Luis Benedicto commended the new device, positioning it as the most crucial thing to cater for the people with audio-visual disabilities.

“Literary, we were excluded and limited in the use of cellphones, as most of them are not user-friendly for people with audio-visual disabilities. The introduction of this device will help us to not only enjoy communication services from Vodacom but also C2 General enhance our interaction with others as well as using these devices for socio- economic benefits as well,” said Mr. Benedicto.

This product launch comes after Vodacom recently introduced a dedicated customer service channel to cater for visually impaired customers on top of the one catering to deaf customers launched last year.

The company’s efforts towards focus on enhancing the lives of its customers by bridging the digital divide for individuals with disabilities has led it to being amongst the signatories of GSMA Principles for Driving the Digital Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities.

These principles provide a framework for action for the industry along with a set of potential activities that can be taken by mobile operators to reduce the gap in access and use.