NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenya’s smartphone market is experiencing a revolution with the rise of locally assembled devices, a move set to democratize technology access.
Since the launch of this initiative in October last year, a remarkable 390,000 devices have been sold, signaling a promising shift towards technological inclusivity.
Affordable Smartphones: A Game-Changer for Digital Access
Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary (CS) Eliud Owalo recently highlighted the significant strides made in producing affordable smartphones within Kenya.
Speaking at the launch of the Jitume Project at Seme Technical and Vocational College in Kisumu County, Owalo emphasized that these budget-friendly devices are crucial for bridging the technology gap that hampers the uptake of digital government services.
“We recognize that many Kenyans still lack access to smartphones. The government, in collaboration with the private sector, has initiated the assembly of affordable Kenyan smartphones locally. This means we won’t need to import phones from countries like China or Korea,” Owalo stated.
The Neon brand handsets, priced at Sh7,499 each, are now available at Safaricom and Jamii Telecom shops nationwide.
These smartphones are equipped with essential features, enabling users to access government services conveniently from anywhere, reducing the need for in-person visits to government offices.
Owalo assured that the digital transformation will benefit all Kenyans. “It will be a direct interaction between you as a Kenyan, your phone, and the government. You won’t need to know anyone in a government office to access these services. You will be able to apply for an ID or a passport virtually,” he explained.
Expanding Internet Access Through Strategic Partnerships
To support this digital transformation, the government has partnered with Kenya Power Company (KPC) to enhance fibre connectivity across the country.
This collaboration aims to ensure reliable and sustainable internet access by utilizing KPC transmission lines for laying fibre optic cables, a method less prone to vandalism than traditional underground installations.
Since January 2023, approximately 11,000 kilometres of fibre optic cables have been installed, with an ambitious goal to reach 100,000 kilometres by 2026.
Owalo mentioned that KPC has already engaged 300 contractors nationwide to advance this project. “We will extend fibre connectivity to all existing 74,000 transformers. Once fibre is connected to these transformers, we can provide internet access to nearby institutions and public spaces such as market centres,” the CS noted.
This initiative will significantly boost internet accessibility, supporting the digital infrastructure necessary for Kenya’s burgeoning digital economy.
