Kenya’s local smartphone assembly plant, operational for the first two months, has successfully produced 194,000 phones, averaging 4,500 units daily, according to ICT Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo.
Established in late October to combat the prevalence of counterfeit devices, the plant has provided employment to 310 Kenyans and is seen as a crucial step in addressing the high cost of imported smartphones.
The devices, branded as ‘Neon Smarta’ and ‘Neon Ultra,’ are part of a government-led initiative in collaboration with Chinese dealer Shenzhen TeleOne Technology, Safaricom, and Jamii Telecommunications.
The plant plans to expand its product range to include tablets, feature smartphones, and a 6.75-inch smartphone, with a 5G model in design. Owalo emphasized that local smartphone assembly will contribute to digital access and inclusion, offering devices at a more affordable price point of around Sh8,000.
The plant, located at Konza Technopolis smart city in Athi River, Machakos County, was launched on October 30, 2023, with a focus on accelerating 4G internet penetration in the country.
