Hong Kong firm launches smartphones in Kenya

Hong Kong-based digital lifestyle devices brand Zuri has partnered with regional IT distributor DESPEC to roll-out their brand of smartphones in the Kenyan market.

Zuri CEO Vikash Shah said in a statement on Sunday that the increasing demand for smartphones in the region was a motivation to entering the Kenyan market.

"East Africa represents a significant growth opportunity for Zuri, with demand for smartphones increasing across the region. We are confident that DESPEC will enable us to build strong routes-to-market across Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda," Shah said.

Shah launched four Zuri models C41, C46, C52 and S56 and said they aimed to provide consumers with smarter, simpler and stronger ways to realise the full potential of the connected world.

"We look forward to working with operators, retailers and resellers in East Africa to explain the benefits that Zuri provides to consumers and the win-win business proposition for channel partners that align with our strategy," he added.

Zuri, which draw inspiration from the Swahili word Zuri meaning beauty, also includes free 8 GB memory card, screen protectors, and phone covers.

Shah said the appointment of DESPEC represented the next step in Zuri's ambitious international expansion plans.

"DESPEC provides Zuri with access to an extensive channel customer base spanning both reseller and retailer channels across East Africa," Shah said.

He added that the two companies planned to work together on a series of marketing initiatives, branding exercises and social media campaigns in the coming months to build market awareness.

DESPEC Country Manager lingaraj P, while welcoming the addition of Zuri smartphones to DESPEC's portfolio said channel partners and consumers were looking for smartphone brands that stand out from the crowd.

"We believe the Zuri message, branding and image - coupled with the quality of the devices - will allow us to build strong sales across Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda," lingaraj P said. Endit