The technological landscape across Africa is advancing swiftly, with significant progress evident in the realm of mobile phone manufacturing.
Although international powerhouses such as Samsung, Apple, and Huawei maintain a stronghold on the market, a growing number of African enterprises are emerging, crafting devices specifically designed to meet the continent’s distinct requirements.
These indigenous brands emphasize cost-effectiveness, robustness, dual-SIM capabilities, and cultural relevance. Beyond product features, their operations foster employment opportunities, enhance technical expertise, and strengthen the regional technology sector-even though many still depend on imported parts like processors and screens.
Below is an overview of prominent African smartphone manufacturers that are influencing the continent’s mobile technology landscape:
Mara Phones (Rwanda / South Africa)
Established by entrepreneur Ashish J. Thakkar under the Mara Group umbrella, Mara Phones gained attention between 2018 and 2019 as Africa’s pioneering large-scale smartphone brand committed to “Made in Africa” production. Operating factories in Rwanda’s Kigali Special Economic Zone and South Africa, the company introduced models such as the Mara X and Mara Z.
While many components remain imported, Mara Phones has generated local employment, provided workforce training, and emerged as a beacon of Africa’s aspiration to develop homegrown technology manufacturing.
Mi-Fone (Mauritius)
Founded in 2008 by Alpesh Patel, Mi-Fone is often recognized as one of Africa’s earliest mobile device brands. Headquartered in Mauritius, it designs smartphones that prioritize affordability, dual-SIM support, and durability-features essential for the continent’s broad consumer base.
Although the majority of Mi-Fone’s manufacturing occurs in China, the company’s dedication to designing and marketing devices tailored to African users marks it as a trailblazer in addressing local market demands. Its expansion highlights the growing enthusiasm for African-origin brands in a sector largely dominated by global players.
RLG Communications (Ghana)
Founded by Ghanaian businessman Roland Agambire, RLG Communications began as a mobile phone repair and accessories provider before evolving into assembling smartphones, tablets, and laptops. The company also runs ICT training initiatives aimed at equipping Africans with skills for the digital era.
With assembly plants in Ghana and other locations, RLG has encountered challenges such as project delays and financial difficulties. Nevertheless, it stands as a testament to West Africa’s resolve to establish a foothold in technology manufacturing.
SICO Technology (Egypt)
Founded in 2003 and part of the El-Sayed Salem Group, SICO Technology is Egypt’s inaugural smartphone manufacturer. Based in Cairo with a production facility in Assiut, the company launched the Nile X in 2017, a smartphone proudly branded as “Made in Egypt.”
With offices extending to Nairobi and Dubai, SICO continues to broaden its reach, focusing on affordable devices for African and Middle Eastern consumers. While most components are imported, SICO is among the few African firms to incorporate a significant proportion of local content in its products.
VMK (Congo-Brazzaville)
VMK (Vou Mou Ka), founded in 2009 by Congolese entrepreneur Vérone Mankou, introduced the Elikia smartphone as the first Central African brand to develop a device for regional markets.
Although some production shifted to China over time, VMK continues to produce budget-friendly phones, including feature models like the Elikia Moké 2, which are assembled within Africa and customized to meet local preferences.
Afrione (Nigeria)
In 2016, Afrione became Nigeria’s pioneer brand for assembling smartphones and tablets, operating out of the Ilupeju Industrial Scheme in Lagos. As a subsidiary of Afrifone Ltd, the company assembles a range of devices including smartphones, feature phones, and tablets, with a mission to generate employment and stimulate indigenous innovation.
Afrione distinguishes itself through investments in local research and testing facilities, representing one of the continent’s most serious efforts to anchor smartphone manufacturing within Africa’s largest economy.