MOGO Expands Lipa Pole Pole Portfolio with Oppo Smartphones

NAIROBI, KENYA — Asset financing company Mogo Kenya has expanded its lipa pole pole smartphone portfolio with the addition of three new Oppo devices — the Oppo A6x, Oppo A3x, and Oppo A5 — marking a significant shift in Kenya’s fast-growing phone-on-loan market.

The move signals a strategic expansion beyond its traditional lineup of Tecno, Infinix, and Itel devices, positioning MOGO to tap into customers seeking more premium Android options under flexible payment plans.

Strategic Shift Toward Mid-Range Premium Devices

For years, MOGO’s phone financing portfolio has largely focused on budget-friendly brands popular among entry-level and lower mid-tier buyers. By introducing Oppo — a globally recognized smartphone brand known for sleek design, camera performance, and durability — MOGO is now targeting a broader segment of customers looking for enhanced features without upfront cash strain.

Industry observers note that Oppo devices typically appeal to:

• Young professionals
• Social media content creators
• Photography enthusiasts
• Customers upgrading from entry-level smartphones

The addition of Oppo gadgets could significantly raise the average device value under MOGO’s financing model.

Direct Challenge to Onfon Mobile

Market analysts say the expansion places MOGO in more direct competition with Onfon Mobile, a major player in Kenya’s device financing and retail ecosystem.

Onfon Mobile has steadily built a reputation for offering a wide range of brands under flexible payment plans. By onboarding Oppo, MOGO is signaling its intention to compete not just on affordability — but on brand strength and device quality.

“This is no longer just about entry-level financing. It’s about offering aspirational devices on manageable installments,” noted a Nairobi-based retail analyst familiar with the sector.

Growing Demand for Lipa Pole Pole Phones

Kenya’s lipa pole pole (pay in installments) model continues to gain traction as consumers seek flexible purchasing options amid tight economic conditions. Rising smartphone prices have made financing increasingly attractive, especially among urban and peri-urban buyers.

The Oppo A6x, A3x, and A5 models are expected to attract:

• Customers upgrading from Tecno or Itel
• Buyers seeking better cameras and battery life
• Individuals preferring stylish designs at mid-range pricing

Market Implications

With this expansion, MOGO appears to be shifting from purely volume-driven budget sales to a more diversified portfolio that balances affordability and brand prestige.

If successful, the strategy could:

• Increase loan ticket sizes
• Boost customer retention through higher-end upgrades
• Trigger pricing and portfolio responses from competitors

What This Means for Consumers

For customers, the entry of Oppo into MOGO’s financing lineup means:

• More brand options
• Access to higher-spec devices
• Continued flexibility in installment payments

As competition heats up, consumers may ultimately benefit from improved payment terms, bundled offers, and wider device choices.

Bottom Line:
MOGO’s addition of Oppo smartphones represents more than just new inventory — it signals a maturing and increasingly competitive lipa pole pole smartphone market in Kenya, where brand value is becoming just as important as affordability.