African ethical smartphone maker, Mara Phones, recently launched for the first time in the United Kingdom.

Its X1 and Z1 midrange Android models sell for US$200-400 retail thru open channels such as eFones. Specs are a 6.5-inch screen, 16MP camera, and so on.

Mara is a rare example of an Africa-led brand expanding into Europe. Its HQ is in Dubai, but most R&D and sales take place from Rwanda or South Africa. Shipments are niche for now, but this is one to watch.