LEAVE OUR ‘BHOMPOMPO’ ALONE – USERS

MBABANE – With the upcoming transition to faster networks, some citizens have voiced dissatisfaction with the decision-making process behind the move to phase out ‘bhompompo’.

Also called ‘a brick’ or basic phone, ‘dumb’ phones are mobile phones that do not connect to the internet. Dumb phones offer minimal features compared to smartphones. For example, smartphones let users customise the device with various apps, layouts and colours. This publication, on its Facebook page, posted that ‘Eswatini is transitioning to 4G and 5G networks, meaning ‘bhompompo’ days are numbered, as 2G and 3G networks are set to be switched off in the coming years.

This was after Minister of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) Savannah Maziya clarified that the ministry had not yet done away with ‘bhompompo’ but they were slowly phasing it out until 2026.  This was during the ministry’s portfolio committee debate on the second quarter performance report in Parliament on Monday. She said the move was informed by the transition to 4G, 5G and 6G networks, where ‘bhompompo’ would be irrelevant. “This is to raise awareness to the users of the phone to be aware that it will be phased out of the market by 2026. We have to explore ways of how people can get to own smart-phones at affordable prices,” she said. The minister also highlighted that ‘bhompompo’ is preferred by people engaging in criminal activities, because it is hard to trace.

Affordable

For many, these affordable old-school phones have been a lifeline in communication. The move has prompted apprehension among users who rely on these simpler devices for daily communication. The ‘bhompompo’ phones are often praised for their long battery life and affordability, making them particularly popular among low-income earners and the elderly.
One user noted the practicality of ‘bhompompo’ for business, highlighting its battery longevity compared to modern devices. However, with the upcoming transition to faster networks, some citizens have voiced dissatisfaction, questioning the decision-making process behind this move.

Many feel that this technological upgrade does not consider the socioeconomic realities faced by a significant portion of the population. Critics argue that the decision disregards those who lack the financial means to purchase expensive smartphones, with some expressing concern for the elderly, who may struggle to adapt to new technology. A frequent comment pointed out that, in more developed nations, older network models still coexist alongside new technologies. This raises the question of whether a similar strategy could be implemented in Eswatini, given its unique context.

Others highlighted the need for government to provide affordable smartphone options or even subsidise them, in light of the current economic challenges. Some users expressed concern for individuals with visual impairments, who may find existing smartphones less user-friendly compared to the tactile keys of ‘bhompompo’ devices.  There were calls from various quarters for government to reconsider its approach, with suggestions that consultations should have included voices from communities most affected by the changes. As discussions continue, citizens are increasingly worried that the path towards digitalisation may leave behind vulnerable populations.

The consensus among many commentators is clear; without a supportive transition plan and affordable alternatives, the shift away from ‘bhompompo’ presents serious risks for those who have long depended on these devices for their daily communications and livelihoods.

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