30th-Dec-2025 • Isaac Kennedy • Entrepreneurship
Kenya's vibrant SME sector plays a significant role in the country's economy, accounting for over 98% of all businesses and employing approximately 70% of the workforce. However, despite their prevalence, many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) struggle to thrive due to various challenges such as limited resources, competitive markets, and inadequate access to finance.
To help SMEs navigate these hurdles and achieve sustainable growth, we've compiled a list of entrepreneurial strategies that have proven effective for businesses across Kenya and Africa.
The digital age offers numerous opportunities for SMEs to streamline operations, reach wider audiences, and improve efficiency. Adopting digital solutions like Lipabiz's business management platform and payments platform can help you automate administrative tasks, manage finances more effectively, and enhance customer service.
Having a professional website and active social media profiles is essential for any business looking to establish a strong online presence. This not only helps you attract new customers but also positions your brand as credible and trustworthy.
Mobile payments are ubiquitous in Kenya, with M-PESA leading the way. By integrating mobile payment options into your business model, you can cater to customer preferences and streamline transactions, ultimately boosting sales and improving cash flow.
Exceptional customer service is a key differentiator for SMEs in competitive markets. By prioritizing customer satisfaction, you can foster long-term relationships, generate repeat business, and attract positive word-of-mouth referrals.
Partnerships with complementary businesses can help SMEs access new markets, share resources, and reduce operational costs. Look for opportunities to collaborate with other businesses in your industry or ecosystem.