M-KOPA Spurs Local Smartphone Assembly and Job Creation in Kenya
M-KOPA Kenya is making significant strides in the local manufacturing and tech sector, as it celebrates the production of over 1.5 million smartphones at its Nairobi assembly facility. This factory, launched in January 2023 in partnership with Human Mobile Devices (HMD), has quickly become the largest smartphone assembly facility in sub-Saharan Africa, further cementing the company’s commitment to bringing affordable digital connectivity to millions of Kenyans.
Martin Kingori, General Manager of M-KOPA Kenya, expressed pride in the company’s local manufacturing efforts. “Assembling our devices in Kenya is something we are extremely proud of,” he said. “It demonstrates our commitment to making quality smartphones affordable and accessible to millions of Kenyans, bringing digital connectivity to people across the country.”
The factory’s success is a direct result of strong government support for local manufacturing, alongside a focus on job creation and skills development. Since its inception, the facility has employed over 325 people, many of whom are young Kenyans starting their careers in the tech industry. In June 2024, the company marked a major milestone by assembling its one millionth device, and production continues to ramp up, with more than 1.5 million phones produced to date.
The assembly plant not only helps meet the growing demand for affordable smartphones but also plays a key role in strengthening Kenya’s economy. By fostering local expertise and creating a pipeline of skilled workers, M-KOPA is helping build a sustainable tech ecosystem that supports long-term economic growth.
In line with its commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, M-KOPA also emphasizes strong corporate governance and ethical business practices. The company’s ESG strategy, regularly reviewed by the Board of Directors, ensures responsible management across all operations. As part of its efforts to maintain transparency, M-KOPA submits annual ESG reports to investors.
M-KOPA’s governance framework includes strict compliance policies covering areas such as anti-money laundering, anti-bribery, conflict of interest, and procurement standards. Furthermore, the company has made significant investments in the safety and well-being of its employees, with over 45 internal training sessions on topics ranging from field safety to waste disposal and gender safety.
The assembly facility’s growth is a testament to M-KOPA’s determination to not only deliver affordable smartphones but also contribute to the socio-economic development of Kenya. With local manufacturing at the heart of its strategy, M-KOPA is paving the way for a more digitally connected and economically empowered future for Kenya and the wider region.
About M-KOPA
M-KOPA is a leading provider of affordable mobile devices and solar energy solutions across Africa. The company’s innovative pay-as-you-go business model has empowered millions of people to access essential technology and services. Through its local assembly plant in Nairobi, M-KOPA is driving the digital economy while creating job opportunities and contributing to the growth of Kenya’s manufacturing sector.
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