• A new mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) has launched in South Africa in the form of C-CONNECT.
• The SIM-only brand makes use of C-Cell’s network infrastructure.
• Some rewards on C-CONNECT include 10 percent back in the form of Cha-Chings, its in-app currency.

It looks like the number of mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) in South Africa is steadily growing, and this week a new offering has been launched in the form of C-CONNECT.

With Melon Mobile having found success of late, now C-CONNECT is aiming to be similarly disruptive by offering an affordably priced solution for cost savvy local consumers, as well as a rewards program to incentivise use of its services.

“With a commitment to providing cost-effective mobile services that don’t compromise on quality, C-CONNECT aims to be the first and most rewarding choice for savvy prepaid subscribers,” it explained in a press release sent to Hypertext.

The prepaid SIM-only brand makes use of C-Cell’s network infrastructure and rewards people via an in-house currency called Cha-Chings. When subscribers top-up their prepaid airtime or data, they can earn 10 percent back in the form of Cha-Chings, which then be used to purchase other products and services on the C-CONNECT platform.

“Cha-Chings can be exchanged for a wide variety of lifestyle products and services, including products such as prepaid electricity/water and data, tickets for events, and gaming vouchers. This reward system empowers customers to maximise their mobile spending while accessing a range of lifestyle products and services,” the new MVNO noted.

New subscribers can also sign up on the C-CONNECT app (iOS, Android, or AppGallery) or website to get a SIM delivered to their door or from a selected pickup point. There is also the option to collect one from an authorised distribution partner.

Prospective customers will need to complete the full RICA process online sans any in-store visit, with activation to receive and spend Cha-Chings also handled by registering on the website, downloading the C-CONNECT app or dialing *105#.

Customers can top up with airtime or data using the aforementioned app, on the website, by dialing USSD (*105#), or buying a voucher at a partner store. They can also recharge with Ringas or a Blu Voucher, which is a universal single-use prepaid airtime voucher that allows subscribers to top-up.

Also worth pointing out is that data on the C-CONNECT app and airtime on the USSD is zero-rated.

“What sets us apart in a competitive market is that we offer people meaningful rewards for buying voice and data, an essential everyone needs. It’s the most rewarding connection for South African cellular subscribers with no fuss and no frills, just a straightforward and simple way to access a world of prepaid services with added benefits,” enthused Richard Anderson, COO at C-CONNECT.

“With C-Connect, we’re not just offering connectivity; we’re giving our customers the power to see real rewards from their mobile usage,” he concluded.

With the number of MVNO options growing locally, it will be interesting to see how things shape up for C-CONNECT over the coming months.

You can check out the providers offerings on its website here.