Kenya has opened the doors to cost-effective, locally assembled smartphones with the inauguration of the state-of-the-art East Africa Device Assembly Kenya Limited, located in Athi River. This advanced device assembly facility is the result of a collaborative effort between local Mobile Network Operators and international device manufacturers. The smartphones, which will be available nationwide at Faiba shops, dealer stores, Safaricom shops, and the Masoko online platform, are set to retail starting from KES 7,499.
The leading mobile phone models unveiled at the launch include the 4G-enabled Neon 5" "Smarta" and the 6 ½" "Ultra." The product range is expected to diversify further over the next few months, with the introduction of a locally assembled tablet. This factory aligns with the government's commitment to establishing local smartphone assembly capabilities in Kenya, boasting the capacity to manufacture up to 3 million mobile phone units annually.
Joshua Chepkwony, Chairman of East Africa Device Assembly Kenya (EADAK) and Chairman & CEO of Jamii Telecom, emphasized, "This assembly plant will support the government's agenda to enhance digital inclusion in the country. We have been able to achieve affordability through a collaborative approach that comprises industry partnership and favorable government policies."
Furthermore, the factory is anticipated to create between 300 and 500 direct employment opportunities, promote the development of local talent, and make a substantial contribution to the economic growth of the nation.
Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom, expressed his views on the launch, stating, "The launch of EADAK reaffirms our belief in the power of connectivity to transform lives and drive economic progress. This partnership underscores our relentless pursuit to expand 4G access and empower Kenyans through affordable, high-quality smartphones, create employment opportunities, and grow our economy."
The establishment of East Africa Device Assembly Kenya Limited not only addresses the need for affordable smartphones in Kenya but also exemplifies the benefits of public-private partnerships and forward-looking government policies in fostering economic growth and digital inclusion in the country.
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