Kampala, Uganda – (31st August 2026) – Airtel Mobile Commerce Uganda Limited, trading as Airtel Money, and the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) have renewed a strategic partnership aimed at expanding access to voluntary social security savings through SmartLife, NSSF’s flexible savings solution designed for Uganda’s informal and emerging workforce.
The partnership seeks to accelerate financial inclusion and promote a culture of long-term saving by leveraging Airtel Uganda’s extensive digital ecosystem, customer reach, and Airtel Money platform to make saving easier, more accessible, and more convenient for Ugandans.
As of 28th August 2026, less than 2 years since its launch, SmartLife Flexi’s total asset size stood at UGX199.3 billion and over 130,000 enrolments. Airtel Uganda, with a customer base of over 20 million subscribers, provides a powerful platform to rapidly scale enrolment and participation through digital channels, Airtel Money, and targeted customer engagement initiatives.
Through this partnership, Ugandans will be able to conveniently enrol for SmartLife and make contributions digitally using Airtel Money, enabling them to build financial security regardless of how or when they earn their income.
Speaking about the partnership, Japhet Aritho, Managing Director, Airtel Mobile Commerce Uganda Limited, said:
“At Airtel Money, we are committed to providing solutions that improve the lives of our customers. Through this partnership with NSSF, we are making it easier for Ugandans to access long-term savings through simple and convenient digital channels. Whether you are a trader, boda rider, farmer, entrepreneur, or self-employed professional, SmartLife gives you an opportunity to save consistently and secure your future.”
He added that the partnership reflects Airtel Money’s broader commitment to advancing financial inclusion by connecting customers to essential financial services through technology they use every day.
Gerald Paul Kasaato, the NSSF Deputy Managing Director said:
“SmartLife was created to extend social security coverage to all Ugandans in the formal sector and the informal sector, as well as the diaspora.
Our partnership with Airtel Money enables us to reach more people where they are, using a trusted digital platform that they interact with daily. Together, we are making it easier for Ugandans to start saving for their future, regardless of their income level,” Kasaato said.
A key feature of the initiative is its affordability and accessibility. Customers can start saving with as little as UGX 500, making SmartLife accessible to a wide range of Ugandans. In addition, every contribution attracts transaction charges as low as UGX 150, ensuring that customers can save conveniently at minimal cost.
The partnership will be supported by a comprehensive awareness campaign across Airtel and NSSF digital platforms, social media, customer engagement activations, financial literacy initiatives, and community outreach programs aimed at educating Ugandans on the importance of long-term saving.
By combining NSSF’s expertise in social security and long-term savings with Airtel Money’s extensive reach and digital capabilities, the two organizations aim to deepen financial inclusion, encourage a culture of saving, and empower more Ugandans to build a secure financial future.
ENDS
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