Safaricom and Huawei Launch VybCall, Africa’s First Video Ring Back Tone Service

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VybCall marks a new milestone in mobile innovation and digital customer experience

NAIROBI, Kenya – October 8, 2025 — Safaricom, in partnership with Huawei, has launched VybCall, Kenya’s first-ever Video Ring Back Tone (VRBT) service — a pioneering feature that transforms the way callers experience waiting time. The innovation builds on the legacy of the iconic Skiza service, launched nearly two decades ago, by introducing short-form video content that users can personalise to entertain their callers before a call is answered.

With this development, Kenya becomes the first African country to roll out VRBT, cementing Safaricom’s position as a leader in mobile innovation and customer-centric digital solutions.

“At Safaricom, we are constantly exploring new ways to give our customers choice and control through targeted experiences,” said James Maitai, Safaricom’s Chief Technology and Information Officer (CTIO). “The launch of Kenya’s first Video Ring Back Tone service is one way we are transforming daily moments creatively, buttressing our commitment to innovation.”

The new VybCall service allows Safaricom customers to select and share curated video clips with their callers, offering an engaging and modern twist to the traditional audio ring back tone. The service will initially be available on the Safaricom Neon range, select Samsung, Oppo, and Xiaomi Redmi A series devices, with Vivo support expected by the second quarter of 2026.

Users can activate the feature by dialling *860# on compatible devices or by visiting vybcall.safaricom.com via the Safaricom App.

Huawei Kenya CEO Gavin Gao praised the partnership, saying, “VybCall will help the amazing creatives in Kenya. This is just one of the many ways Huawei works with our partners to develop innovative technologies that improve customer experience and drive economic growth.”

The service also opens up new monetisation opportunities for content creators and businesses, allowing them to use the ring back tone space as a marketing tool — turning idle caller time into an interactive engagement moment.

Since the introduction of Skiza, Safaricom has remained at the forefront of blending technology with culture and creativity. With the growing popularity of short-form video content globally, VybCall represents the next evolution of digital expression for mobile users.

The launch of VybCall underscores Safaricom’s continued investment in enhancing customer touchpoints and advancing Kenya’s digital entertainment landscape — reaffirming its role as a trailblazer in Africa’s mobile technology ecosystem.


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