Republic of Congo-based mobile devices startup VMK has announced the launch of its own production with the capability of manufacturing over 350,000 phones each month.
Launched in 2009, VMK sells brands such as the Way-C tablet and Elikia smartphone, but has until now had its products manufactured in China and imported.
Disrupt Africa reported earlier this year the company had announced plans to launch an assembly plant in Brazzaville, with more than 90 local staff being trained by a Chinese partner company to man it.
Work has now begun at the plant, with VMK expecting to be able to produce more than four million devices per year from within the country.
VMK also opened its first store in Ivory Coast this year, with plans to be present in five West African countries by year end. Meanwhile, the first smartwatch made in Africa – the crossover model Omate Racer x VMK limited edition – will be assembled at the new VMK factory.
