President William Ruto has launched Kenya’s first smartphone assembly plant, East Africa Device Assembly Kenya (EADAK), located in Mavoko, Machakos County.
This pioneering venture, in collaboration with local mobile network operators such as Safaricom, Jamii Telecommunications, and Chinese business Shenzhen TeleOne Technology, is poised to propel Kenya’s tech industry to new heights.
EADAK’s state-of-the-art facility boasts the capacity to produce up to 3 million smartphones annually.
The plant’s establishment aligns seamlessly with the Kenyan government’s broader vision to champion technology and innovation, making affordable internet access accessible to all citizens and fostering digital inclusion.
It is also expected to generate between 300 and 500 direct job opportunities for Kenyans, enhancing skills development within the tech sector.
In addition to contributing to a self-sufficient and vibrant tech landscape, this initiative aims to reduce Kenya’s reliance on imported smartphones, thus conserving foreign exchange and bolstering the nation’s economy.
EADAK’s Chairperson, Joshua Chepkwony, revealed during the launch that the smartphones would be available to the public at a competitive price point starting from Ksh. 7,499. These devices will be distributed nationwide through Faiba shops, dealer’s stores, Safaricom shops, and the Masoko online platform.