Kenyan telecommunications companies have inaugurated East Africa Device Assembly Kenya Limited (EADAK), the country’s first local phone assembly plant, in Athi River.
The plant, which has the capacity to produce up to 3 million units annually, is a realization of the government’s commitment to establishing a local smartphone assembly.
The devices, retailing for Ksh 7,499, will be available at Faiba shops, dealer stores, Safaricom shops, and the Masoko online platform.
The factory is expected to create between 300 and 500 direct jobs.
Opened the East Africa Device Assembly Kenya and launched locally assembled devices, Mavoko, Machakos County. pic.twitter.com/U0zXS9Nyyq
— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) October 30, 2023
Despite new taxes pushing up prices, EADAK continues to strive towards providing affordable smartphones to Kenyans.
“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 partnerships and favourable government policies,” said Joshua Chepkwony, Chairman of EADAK.
Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom, said the East Africa Device Assembly Kenya Limited reaffirms the telco’s belief in the power of connectivity to transform lives and drive economic progress.
‘’This partnership underscores our relentless pursuit to expand 4G access, empower Kenyans through affordable, high-quality smartphones, create employment opportunities, and grow our economy,” he said.
“Our aim as Safaricom PLC is to connect over 20 million customers with 4G-enabled devices by 2025. We are also here in support of the government’s digitisation agenda.”
