The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has provided complimentary data bundles to Kenyans who purchase affordable smartphones launched last week by President William. Engineer John Tanui, the Secretary in the ministry, stated that this initiative aims to encourage Kenyans to buy these phones, with one unit priced at Ksh 7,499.
The government’s objective is to promote the digital economy.
“The government aims to ensure that Kenyans embrace the digital economic system. Through these phones, citizens will have the opportunity to access more than 5,000 services currently available through networks,” said Mr. Tanui.
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“These phones, launched recently by President Ruto, cost only Ksh 7,499, and the first buyers will receive complimentary bundles,” Mr. Tanui mentioned Wednesday morning in an interview on Spice FM radio.
However, the Ministry Secretary did not disclose the amount of data that the first buyers of the phone would receive.
“At this time, the digital economy is growing to be 2.5 times that of the regular economy. That is why the government is committed to promoting this economy by launching these phones, which will ensure that even Kenyans in rural areas can easily access government services,” reiterated Mr. Tanui.
On October 30, 2023, President Ruto launched the new phone manufactured by East Africa Device Assembly Kenya (EADAK) Ltd, located in Mavoko, Machakos County.
The Neon 5 ‘Smarta’ and 6 ½ ‘Ultra’ phones have the capability to use 4G waves and are available for purchase in Faiba stores, Safaricom stores, and other outlets selling phones nationwide. Additionally, they will be sold online through the ‘Masoko online’ platform.
