In an extension of the alliance between KaiOS Technologies and Africell, the companies have announced the availability of a new KaiOS-enabled smart feature phone, the 4G Vida K242, in Uganda.

The companies say the device will facilitate mobile internet adoption across the country.

According to the Digital 2020 report for Uganda, there were 26.83 million mobile connections in January, equivalent to 60% of the population. However, internet penetration was only 24%, with just 2.5 million social media users.

In a statement the companies explain that the newly launched device has been specifically designed for people who are unable to afford a smartphone and want to go online. It has a user-friendly interface optimised for first-time internet users.

The companies explain: “It comes with the world’s most popular apps, such as WhatsApp, YouTube, Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Facebook, and provides access to hundreds of other applications through the KaiStore.

“Life, the in-house app that offers life skills training for first-time internet users and ranks as one of the top 10 most downloaded apps in Uganda, is also available via the KaiStore.”

The newly launched device retails at US$32.4 and comes with 1.5GB and 850 on-net minutes every month for six months.

Africell operates nationwide 2G, 3G, and 4G networks and is investing heavily to achieve extensive growth in both urban and rural areas.

Neeraj Gala, Chief Commercial Officer of Africell Uganda .

Neeraj Gala, Chief Commercial Officer of Africell Uganda said, “On top of being the first 4G feature plus phone to be launched in Uganda, we are also making the 4G Vida the most affordable for only 120,000 ugx, inclusive of 1.5 GB and 850 minutes of talk-time on Africell network. Additionally, and as a cherry on top we are offering the customer 1.5 GB and 850 minutes of Africell talk-time for free for 6 months.”

Sebastien Codeville, CEO of KaiOS Technologies, added: “For millions of people across the world, a KaiOS-enabled device is their entry point into the online services that can transform lives. Africell is a trusted partner that shares the same mission of reducing the gap between digital haves and have-nots, by bringing smart feature phones with life-enhancing services to first-time internet users across Uganda.”