Mozambique has built the first computer assembly line in its capital city of Maputo.
The assembly line was built under a deal between the Mozambican government and the South African company Sahara Computers.
The factory, which began operating about three weeks ago, is currently producing between 50 and 70 computers a day, including desktops, laptops and mini-computers.
The computers have been branded "Dzowo", the clan name of the founder and first president of the Mozambique Liberation Front ( Frelimo) Eduardo Mondlane.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, the production manager of the factory, Gustavo Chauque, said the installed capacity would allow the plant to assemble 150 computers a day.
The parts are all from reputable companies, and so "Dzowo" could deal a body blow to those companies who have been selling imported computers at grossly inflated prices.
"The advantage of these computers is that they are high quality, and they are cheaper than other models available on the market," said Chauque.
The price ranges from 15,000 meticais to 17,000 meticais (560 U. S. dollars to 640 dollars), much cheaper than imported ones. "The price is low, because we have to pay fewer customs duties," said Chauque. "The taxes on importing parts are lower than for importing complete computers."
Although the dominant partner in the venture is Sahara Computers, all 15 staff working at the factory are Mozambicans.
On Friday, the company management presented the Dzowo machines to Science and Technology Minister Venancio Massingue, and to representatives of Mozambican universities and private companies.
The company is offering computers at even lower prices to students and institutions of higher education.