#Kenya's Plan for Affordable #Smartphones! With local manufacturing plans and major telecom support, Kenya is bringing smartphones to everyone at just $40!
In Kenya, the high cost of smartphones has posed a significant challenge for many consumers. Despite the availability of more affordable options from companies like Transsion and OPPO, prices have continued to rise due to inflation, taxes and a weakening dollar.
To tackle the issue of digital inclusion and smartphone affordability, Kenyan ICT and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo has proposed a plan for local smartphone manufacturing, with a target launch date set for July 2023. This initiative, supported by telecom companies such as Safaricom, Jamii Telecom and Airtel, aims to offer smartphones priced at $40, with the devices being assembled in Kenya's upcoming green city, Konza City.
In addition, HMD Global, the manufacturer of Nokia smartphones, also plans to assemble some of its devices locally. This move will further increase the availability of affordable smart devices in the country.