Summary of Required Steps
1. Purchase a smartphone: The cost ranges between
$130 and $1,120.
2. Purchase a data-capable SIM: Customers have the
option to purchase either a national SIM or an
International SIM, both costing $250.
3. Choose a voice and text service plan: There are
only pre-paid service plan options for voice and
text. No ongoing or post-paid service plans are
available.
4. Activate the SIM’s voice and text service: The topup cost is between $10-25 depending on the
desired number of voice minutes and text
messages and on the in-country or international
SIM type.
5. Activate the SIM’s Data Service: Customers who
want to use data services must complete
additional application forms, submit copies of a
passport or official national ID, and provide two
passport photos. Activation costs approximately
$17. The telephone company reports the purchase
and submits the customer application to MPT. The
rate is approximately $1 for every 280 minutes of
usage.
6. Wait for the government to approve the data
service activation request: This wait can take
between 2 and 3 days.
Purchasing a Smartphone
50
The delegation visited multiple stores, comparing
phones and plans, and asking questions to obtain a
smartphone and data access.50 Prices for
smartphones in these stores ranged from a high of
$1,120 for an Apple iPhone with iOS to a low of $115
for a Samsung Galaxy Y with Android. Being thrifty,
the team purchased a Galaxy Mini for $130.
See Appendix I, Photo 1
17