Vodafone Uganda is selling cheap entry-level smartphones but they aren’t 4G LTE

Now we know Vodafone has branded itself as a 4G LTE network ever since it entered the Ugandan Telecom market. The network has since released a number of services on its premium network, including voice services, both capped and  unlimited internet data plans and 4G LTE USB dongles and Mi-Fis.

The network according to 4G LTE speed tests done by local Tech blog Techjaja doesn’t quite stack up well against the likes of MTN and Africell Uganda. But it’s 2Mbps unlimited internet speeds are nevertheless tempting.

After introducing its own branded Mi-Fis and USB dongles that subscribers can use to access its network, Vodafone has also released Smartphones.

However, its surprising that the company has decided to go with entry-level smartphones first which obviously don’t support 4G LTE despite touting itself as a 4G network.

The network is selling the Vodafone Smart 4 Fun at a price of UGX 199,000  while the Vodafone Smart 4 mini mini at UGX 259,000.

Now the Smart 4 Fun is a 3G device with 3.5” display 512MB RAM, 4GB Internal Memory, 5MP camera, 1400mAh battery. Has a radio feature and runs on Android 4.2.2 (Jelly Bean). The Smart 4 Mini has a 3G device with a slightly bigger screen size of 4.0″ but with similar specs at the Smart 4 fun. Am not sure it would be wise to cough Ugx 50k for 0.5″ more screen estate. But that’s us.

Clearly Vodafone Uganda needs to rethink its strategy in the mobile phone division. You simply can’t be a 4G LTE network with 3G devices in the stores!

Image: Vodafone Facebook page

About David Okwii

David Okwii is the Editor-in-Chief of Dignited.com and a seasoned tech enthusiast whose journey began in the early 2000s. He started blogging while at university, diving deep into mobile apps, smartphone reviews, and operating systems—from testing Linux distros to tweaking Windows machines. David also explores Chromebooks, experiments with Raspberry Pi projects, and brings hands-on curiosity to every review. With vast experience in Uganda’s tech ecosystem and deep knowledge of Africa’s startup landscape, he offers informed, grounded perspectives on consumer technology. When he's not writing or tinkering, David enjoys connecting with nature and exploring the outdoors.