Zuri launches four phone models in Uganda

KAMPALA - Hong Kong-based mobile phone vendor Zuri have introduced four smartphone models on the Ugandan market.

Uganda's lucrative mobile and telecom market attracted the Hong Kong based Zuri brand earlier this year.

The four smartphone models available include Zuri C41, C46, C52 and S56 - each with unique specifications. Vikash Shah, chief executive of Zuri said: "We believe reliable service is essential to the long-term sustainable growth of Zuri brand in East Africa."

The growing uptake of mobile devices now having more than 20 million subscribers presents huge business opportunity for even new entrants even in the very competitive voice segment.

The entry of Zuri brings the number of top phone brands to about 15.

Leading the pack are Samsung, Sony, Xperia, HTC, Apple iPhone, BlackBerry, Huawei, Lenovo, Nokia, LG, Motorola, Alcatel, Tecno and iTel.

Shah said consumers can now buy Zuri smartphones at locations throughout the country, including at leading retail outlets Simba Telecom, Go Phones, Africell outlets countrywide, The Ultimate Gadget Mania, Movie Mart and Praise Communication.

Part of the Amoli Group, Zuri was launched in 2014 to expressly focus on the needs of a growing class of newly-connected consumers, in both mature markets and developing economies.

All Zuri smartphones sold in the country come with a free 8GB micro SD card and two essential accessories: screen guard and protective cover.

The phones come with a 12-month warranty and benefit from an extensive after sales network.  Zuri executives pointed out that there remains enormous potential for growth in Uganda in the mobile market.

"We believe there is potential for more variety and options, Kenya have more variety although all the three states (Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania) are rising fast," noted Farouk Tivani, DESPEC chief executive which is the distributing firm for Zuri across East Africa.

 "Working with operators, retailers and resellers in East Africa, we are making real gains in the market by explaining the benefits that Zuri provides to consumers." Shah added.