Kenya's largest local online retailer Jumia has announced its partnership with Huawei for the launch of the OEM's Mate 10 mobile devices for the Kenyan market.

The two companies have agreed on a market entry strategy according to which Jumia Kenya will sell the Mate 10 series on its online platforms exclusively for two weeks before it gets into the retail stores across the country.

Adam Lane, Senior Director for Public Affairs at Huawei Technologies said, ""A key feature is the Artificial Intelligence processor that is adaptable with one's surroundings making the phone stand out in this competitive market. We are also delighted to partner with Jumia for this launch as part of a commitment to diversify our distribution channels to include popular e-commerce platforms,"

The new Huawei Mate 10 mobile device features a 64GB memory and will retail at Kshs 79,999 and Mate 10 pro that comes with 128GB memory priced at Kshs 89,999.

"Moving forward, we intend to increase our market share through strategic partnerships with mobile network operators, device retailers and distributors in our quest to reach untapped markets. On Jumia, we are hoping to push through more than 2000 devices annually," adds Lane.

Sam Chappatte, Managing Director at Jumia Kenya, says the e-commerce company is delighted to have Huawei Mobile Kenya on board

"I strongly believe this partnership will go a long way in ensuring that our growing customer base access various devices sold by Huawei Mobile. We intend to have a long lasting partnership with Huawei thus ensure that all Huawei devices available online have warranty and ensure Huawei Customer service provides solutions to any rising concerns from our customers."

Key features include the Kirin 970 chipset, a 3D-glass body featuring a barely-there-bezel, a supercharge and 4000 mAh battery with AI-powered battery management, as well as a Leica Dual Camera with SUMMILUX-H lenses.

Derek Duh, Huawei Device Kenya Country Director said, "The Kenyan market today has changed. There are more players offering smart phones to both high end and lower end customers in the Kenyan market. This has grown over the years due to the high internet penetration rates making feature phones less popular. The preference of smartphones that currently can connect to 2G, 3G or 4G networks is due to the functionality of phones moving from voice connectivity to acting like 'life's personal assistants. Smartphones today enable us to plan our days, help in exercising, entertainment and even storage."

The Huawei Mate 10 series will be available in Safaricom shops and other retailers across the country in fourteen days.