Like we saw last year, in the inaugural release, the #JumiaMobileReport2018 assesses the impact mobiles have on Internet penetration and mcommerce; how the mobile phone market has democratised Internet use; the role of mobile brands, mobile operators and m-commerce have in creating an enhanced customer experience; and the profile and behaviour of customers shopping online on Jumia. The 2018 Mobile Report, which was launched in Kampala, revealed that 77% of Ugandans who visited the Jumia Website opted to do so using their mobile devices while the number of those who visited the site with desktop computers only contributed 23%. It also shows that in 2017, 83% of Ugandans preferred the cash on delivery option, while 16% opted for the MTN mobile money option, when shopping online. Speaking during the unveiling of the report, Sefik Bagdadioglu, Jumia’s Regional Manager, noted that smartphones are the primary gateway to the Internet for millions of people in Africa today.
In consultation for the report, Peter Kahiigi, the Director e-Government Services at the National Information Technology Authority – Uganda (NITA-U) highlighted the Authority’s commitment in digitizing Uganda; by reducing the cost of internet connectivity, which is a significant barrier in encouraging the use of Internet across the country.
The Jumia Mobile Week discount sale will run from March 19th through 25th and the company is set to further prove its findings regarding improved mobile device specifications and more attainable prices.