Economic Strain and Protests Shrink Kenya’s Smartphone Market

Smartphone exports to Kenya have sharply declined as political protests and economic pressures take a toll on consumer spending. Rising inflation and reduced disposable incomes have forced many Kenyans to prioritize essentials, leading to a drop in demand for both high-end and budget devices. Retailers and manufacturers are scaling back shipments, while the industry grapples with the dual challenges of disrupted supply chains and a weakened economy.

Egypt Takes a Major Step in Localizing Mobile Phone Tower Manufacturing

Egypt is making strides in technological self-reliance with the opening of its first mobile phone tower manufacturing facility by the Arab Organisation for Industrialisation (AOI). Situated within the Aircraft Factory, this new center represents a significant leap in localizing technology and reducing reliance on imports. Already, the facility has achieved a 100% local manufacturing rate for mobile phone towers, fulfilling orders for Etisalat Misr and setting the stage for expanded production and potential export opportunities across Africa and the Arab world.

Zimbabwe Licenses Starlink for Satellite Internet Services in Strategic Tech Partnership

Zimbabwe has officially licensed Elon Musk’s Starlink to provide satellite internet services, becoming the eighth African country to do so. President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced the partnership with local company IMC Communications, owned by his associate Wicknell Chivayo. This move aims to revolutionize Zimbabwe’s digital landscape by offering high-speed, low-cost internet, particularly benefiting rural areas. Economist Stevenson Dlamini highlighted the potential cost challenges but emphasized the long-term benefits for schools, hospitals, and other public facilities.

Atlantic Lithium Makes History on Ghana Stock Exchange

On May 13th, 2024, Atlantic Lithium made history by becoming the first lithium-focused company to trade on the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) under the ticker “ALLGH.” This milestone marks the beginning of Ghana’s first lithium mine, the Ewoyaa Lithium Project, which is set to produce 365,000 tonnes of spodumene concentrate annually. The listing offers Ghanaians a unique investment opportunity and signifies a major step in the country’s economic and green energy transition efforts.