NAIROBI, Kenya Jan 19 – Family Bank has partnered with Kenya Data Networks and ICT Villages to provide easy financing for laptops.
The partnership is geared towards enhancing internet penetration in the country and serves a complementary roll to the government’s ambitious plan of distributing one million computers and laptops countrywide.
Speaking during the signing of the agreement dubbed ‘Jipange na Internet’, Family Bank Chief Executive Peter Kinyanjui affirmed the bank’s commitment to offer the most affordable financing for those interested in owning a laptop or PC but may not have immediate financing.
Through the partnership, individuals will be able to access loan facilities payable at a monthly rate for a period of 12 months.
“ICT is becoming a key contributor in the growth of the Kenyan economy, and we feel that this partnership will in a great way contribute towards enabling more people contribute positively to the growth of the economy,” Mr Kinyanjui said.
The deal is targeted at university students, public servants as well as interested parties who find it hard to purchase laptop and computers in one tranche.
Kenyans interested in owning the laptops and PCs will also enjoy 60 days of free unlimited Internet connectivity courtesy of KDN and will receive financing through any Family Bank branch countrywide.
“We are committed to making Internet an affordable resource for all Kenyans and this partnership presents an opportunity to enjoy this facility,” KDN Chief Executive Kai Wulff said.
Individuals will be required to visit any Family Bank branch to be directed to appointed resellers who will assist them in identifying the laptop and specifications as well as be guided on how to access the loan facility for the laptops.
‘Jipange na Internet’ offer is open to all Kenyans provided they are able to meet the monthly loan repayments as per the bank’s requirements.
“The offer will enable more Kenyans access IT solutions and also increase the availability of local content online,” Mr Wulff said.
This partnership comes following a joint venture agreement in November 2009 where Family Bank and KDN partnered to bridge the digital divide through the provision of free Wi-Fi connectivity to all Family Bank branches thus making them digital centres to be used by members of the public and the bank’s customers.
Through the same partnership, Family Bank will provide credit facilities for entrepreneurs and communities to use in setting up digital villages and internet hotspots hence ensuring the provision of an unmatched quality of service and a world class Internet experience for Kenyans in all the areas covered by the Family Bank network.
According to the Communication Commission of Kenya (CCK) statistics, the country has 3.4 million internet subscribers and through such partnerships, the number is expected to rise further in 2010.
