Airtime Delivered but CAMTEL Bundle Activation Failed – What to Do

TL;DR: CAMTEL activations happen in two steps:

  1. Switchn sends airtime to your CAMTEL SIM.
  2. Switchn uses that airtime to activate the bundle.



If step 2 fails, the airtime remains on your SIM. It can’t be converted back into Mobile Money, but you can retry, activate manually via USSD, or convert the airtime to another compatible CAMTEL bundle.


Why This Happens

  • Two-step process: Airtime is sent first; bundle activation is attempted afterward. If activation fails, airtime stays on the SIM. A refund to Mobile Money isn’t possible once airtime is delivered.


Common causes of activation failure:

  • SIM not compatible: Some offers like Blue Home require a special CAMTEL SIM and modem.
  • "System error": A temporary issue on CAMTEL's network, usually resolved by retrying later.
  • Pending order: Another activation or top-up request still processing on your line. Wait a short while and retry.
  • SIM inactive/suspended or insufficient airtime: Ensure your SIM is active and has enough airtime for the bundle.
  • Bundle temporarily unavailable: CAMTEL might temporarily suspend certain bundles.


What You Can Do Now

Retry from Switchn (recommended)

  • Go to Switchn → History → Your transaction → “Retry Bundle Activation.”


Activate manually via USSD

  • From the CAMTEL SIM, dial *825# and follow prompts to activate the bundle using airtime already on your SIM. You can also use this code to check your airtime balance.


Convert airtime to a different bundle

  • Open Switchn → Convert Airtime (Airtime → Bundle) to choose another compatible CAMTEL bundle.



If You Tried Blue Home

  • Blue Home bundles only work with a dedicated Blue Home SIM and modem provided by CAMTEL. Using a standard SIM will result in activation failure. Obtain the required SIM/equipment from CAMTEL or use your airtime to activate another compatible bundle such as Blue Go or Blue Go Plus.



How to Recognize This Issue

  • Your Mobile Money receipt shows "payment successful."
  • You receive a confirmation SMS indicating airtime was successfully credited to your CAMTEL SIM.
  • Switchn shows "Activation Status: failing" with an error message (e.g., "system error" or "subscriber can't subscribe to the offer").



If these match your case, please follow the recommended steps above.

Updated on: 18/08/2025

Was this article helpful?

Share your feedback

Cancel

Thank you!