Kisii:Residents of Kisii County now have improved access to mobile phone after-sales services with the launch of a new Samsung Experience Store at Naivas Mall. This development occurred during the Customer Service Week through a collaboration between Samsung Electronics and Watu Credit, aiming to provide repair and customer support services to thousands of mobile phone users in Kisii and nearby regions.
According to Kenya News Agency, Samsung’s Enterprise Investment Partner, Nexora Agencies, will manage repairs at the new facility. This will allow customers to obtain genuine spare parts and other after-sales services without the need to travel to distant service centers.
Watu Credit Country Manager Damien Gueroult, speaking at the launch, emphasized that the store will enhance access to quality and affordable services, reducing the cost and inconvenience of long-distance travel for repairs. Gueroult also highlighted that Watu Credit has assisted Kisii residents and others in acquiring smartphones through its mobile-phone financing program, allowing customers to purchase phones on credit and complete payments over time.
Gueroult assured that the new center would provide genuine products and services, including affordable repairs with quicker turnaround times. However, he warned customers who purchase phones on credit against tampering with tracking mechanisms, as this could be considered an offense and potentially hinder future financing opportunities. He also called for greater public awareness regarding the terms and conditions of financed mobile phones.
Samsung’s Device Financing Lead for East Africa, George Kebaso, mentioned that the Kisii facility is the 24th service center established through their partnership in Kenya. He noted that the companies are addressing the increasing demand for smartphones and digital devices, with advancements in artificial intelligence shaping new product developments. Kebaso affirmed Samsung’s commitment to designing devices that cater to various consumer needs and purchasing capabilities.
Data from the Communications Authority of Kenya indicates that smartphones make up 63.7 percent to 80.5 percent of mobile devices connected to the country’s mobile networks. Asset-financing models, similar to the one used by Samsung and Watu, are gaining popularity among Kenyans for everyday phone purchases due to affordability concerns.
