Old Mutual has launched its own Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) on Cell C’s infrastructure, targeting the lower-income market with competitive mobile services. The new service, called Old Mutual Connect, aims to provide affordable data and reliable connectivity, particularly to customers in the mass market, to help them engage fully in the mainstream economy.
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Clarence Nethengwe, incoming CEO of Old Mutual Bank, explained that the launch is part of the company’s broader integrated financial services strategy. “The MVNO service is designed to deliver tangible, value-added services to our customers,” Nethengwe said. He emphasized that access to affordable data is crucial for customers to interact digitally with the company’s other services.
Old Mutual Connect will operate using a multi-operator core network agreement, ensuring high-speed and reliable mobile services. This means that, while it will primarily run on Cell C’s network, it will also benefit from Cell C’s roaming agreements with Vodacom and MTN, providing broader network coverage and quality service.
Customers can purchase a SIM card from any Old Mutual branch for R5, with airtime and data available for purchase through branches, partner outlets, and digital channels. Upon activation of a new SIM, subscribers will receive 1GB of free data as a welcome offer. Additionally, Old Mutual Connect is introducing a two-for-one data bundle promotion, where customers will receive double the data for every bundle they purchase.
For customers wanting to keep their current phone number, Old Mutual Connect offers number portability, allowing them to switch seamlessly to the new network.
Old Mutual sees its venture into mobile connectivity as a natural extension of its financial services, creating more value for its customers by combining affordable data and communication services with its existing offerings.
