M-KOPA Smartphone Sales Top 1 Million in First Year

• Fintech firm M-KOPA reaches 1 million device sales, combining affordable smartphones with embedded financial services across five African markets.

Devices Designed for Financial Inclusion

M-KOPA, a fintech company focused on emerging markets, has sold over one million branded smartphones within a year of launching its own device range. These smartphones differ from conventional models by integrating financial services directly into the hardware via the company’s Smart Money Platform. Users gain access to health insurance, credit options, and device protection, turning the phone into a tool for economic empowerment. The initiative targets everyday earners across Africa, aiming to expand digital and financial inclusion.

The company’s approach reflects a broader shift in how mobile technology can support underserved communities. By embedding financial tools into the device itself, M-KOPA enables users to manage risks and pursue business opportunities. This model has proven especially relevant in regions where access to traditional banking remains limited. The success of the program suggests growing demand for multifunctional devices tailored to local needs.

Local Manufacturing and Job Creation

M-KOPA assembles its smartphones at a facility in Nairobi, now the largest smartphone factory in Africa by production volume. Since opening in 2023, the plant has created more than 400 jobs and earned ISO 9001 certification for quality management in 2024. The factory plays a central role in the company’s strategy to localize production and maintain high standards. Devices are distributed exclusively through M-KOPA’s sales agents operating in Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa.

The company’s flagship model, the X20, launched last year and has since been joined by the X2, M10, and S34. Additional models are planned for release in the second half of 2025, expanding the product line to meet diverse customer needs. By maintaining control over both manufacturing and distribution, M-KOPA ensures consistency and affordability. This vertical integration supports the company’s broader mission of delivering accessible technology.

Market Response and Future Outlook

CEO Jesse Moore described the milestone as a reflection of customer trust in M-KOPA’s brand and its commitment to innovation. He emphasized that the company is not merely selling smartphones but offering tools that help users improve their financial standing. The combination of hardware and embedded services has resonated with consumers, driving rapid adoption across multiple countries. Continued expansion is expected as the company scales its operations and introduces new models.

M-KOPA’s success highlights the potential of fintech-driven hardware solutions in emerging markets. The integration of financial services into mobile devices offers a practical path to inclusion for millions. As digital infrastructure improves, demand for such hybrid products is likely to grow. The company’s model may serve as a blueprint for similar initiatives in other regions.