KaiOS, Smart Africa aims to boost internet connectivity initiatives across the continent

Smart Africa has signed an agreement with KaiOS Technologies, sparking a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating digital innovation and driving sustainable development across the African continent. This agreement also marks the official membership of KaiOS Technologies in the Pan-African alliance.

As part of this collaboration, KaiOS and Smart Africa will use their combined expertise, resources and networks to advance digital inclusion. This partnership ensures that previously unconnected citizens can access essential digital services such as messaging, news, entertainment and education through affordable and reliable KaiOS-enabled smartphones with internet access. The partnership also aims to empower businesses by delivering affordable merchant payment terminals leveraging KaiOS smartphone technologies, thereby enabling underserved merchants to accept digital payments and manage their businesses efficiently.

Additionally, the partnership will collaborate with governments to provide guidance to member states, working with existing digital inclusion programs to accelerate current initiatives. This effort will include engagement with local communities and stakeholders to tailor solutions to specific needs. The focus will be on providing leading social media applications, educational resources, training programs and related agricultural support to Farmers who will have access to essential agricultural information such as weather forecasts, pest and disease management and market prices. This enables them to make informed decisions, leading to better crop yields and benefits.