Tigo Credit Phones (YAS)

 Tigo Credit Phones (YAS)

Mobile financial services have transformed the lives of many Tanzanians, providing the opportunity to access microloans, save and make payments without relying on banks. Tigo Tanzania , through its mobile financial services Tigo Pesa , has been a leader in innovation. One of the most talked about services is “Tigo Loans (YAS)” – a program that enables customers to get a new phone through a simple and digital credit system.

What is YAS?

YAS (Yet Another Service / Your Affordable Smartphone) is a Tigo program that enables customers to obtain smartphones on credit and pay for them in installments through Tigo Pesa payments. This is part of Tigo's strategy to increase smartphone penetration among its customers and promote the use of digital services. 

How the Service

Phone Selection 

The customer chooses a phone type available on the YAS plan from Tigo stores or partner retailers.

Customer Review

 Tigo uses the customer's Tigo Pesa usage history and line to assess their ability to repay the loan.

The customer may be asked for a national identification number (NIDA) for registration.

Down Payment 

The customer makes a small down payment (deposit), then the phone is delivered immediately.

Payment by Installments 

Phone payments are made in installments (weekly or monthly) through the Tigo Pesa service . 

The electronic system reminds the customer of payment via SMS.

Complete the Loan 

After completing all payments, the phone becomes the complete property of the customer.

Benefits of Tigo Credit Phones (YAS)

1.  Easy Access to Phones – No need to pay a lot of cash at once.
2. Technology Development – Consumers can afford better smartphones that enable them to access digital services. 
3. Ease of Payment – Payments are made through Tigo Pesa without any hassle. 
4. Building a Credit History – Customers who pay on time build a good financial record that can help them access more services. 
5. Supporting Education and Business – Easy access to smartphones enables entrepreneurs and students to use the internet to learn and do business.

Potential Challenges

1. Failure to pay on time – Customer may have their phone blocked or blocked.
2. Interest/additional costs – Although Tigo often does not charge high interest rates, installment payments can increase costs compared to outright purchases.
3. Limited availability – The service is only available to customers with a good Tigo usage history
4. Equipment delays – Available phones are limited to specific models, not every brand on the market is on the YAS program.
5. Tigo Mobile Credit Service (YAS) has changed the way Tanzanians can own a smartphone. Through an installment payment system managed by Tigo Pesa, this service simplifies life, increases digital inclusion, and supports the development of small businesses. However, customers should understand the terms of payment on time and the associated costs before joining this program.