Chinese technology brand, Xiaomi, is accelerating its push into Africa's fast-growing digital market — using Kenya as a strategic entry point to expand its Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem — with the launch of the Redmi Note 15 series and a strengthened partnership with Safaricom, Kenya's largest telecommunications operator.
Photo via China Daily
The Shenzhen-founded company says the new smartphone line is designed to attract Africa's young, vibrant population, while serving as a gateway to a broader ecosystem of connected devices — ranging from wearables and smart TVs to home appliances — all integrated through the Xiaomi Home platform.
Speaking at the launch in Nairobi on Friday, Xiaomi Kenya Country Manager Matt Huang said the Chinese firm is leveraging its global scale and innovation capacity to deliver affordable technology tailored to emerging markets.
In Africa, Xiaomi has retained its position as the third-largest smartphone brand, while recording strong growth in Kenya, where demand for affordable smart devices continues to rise.
The partnership with Safaricom will see Xiaomi tapping into its nationwide distribution network, device financing programs, and 5G infrastructure.
Bruno Kimutai, terminals, operations, and planning lead at Safaricom, said the partnership aligns with Kenya's broader digital transformation agenda.
"Our goal is to put smartphones in as many Kenyan hands as possible, because today the mobile phone is not just a communication device — it is a powerful tool for development," Kimutai said.
He added that Xiaomi devices account for more than half of the smartphones on Safaricom's network, highlighting the Chinese brand's strong market presence.
Kimutai said Safaricom and Xiaomi are jointly promoting a digital lifestyle through affordable smartphones, 5G connectivity, and financing models that have already enabled more than one million Kenyans to access smart devices.
Xiaomi also launched its latest TV lineup — including the large-screen Xiaomi TV Max 100-inch and the more compact A Pro TV series — as it pushes to embed smart technology into everyday life.
With increased investment in retail, marketing, and local partnerships, Xiaomi said it plans to introduce more IoT products in the East African country, betting that Africa's youthful population will drive the next phase of growth for Chinese smart technology brands on the continent.