25th-Feb-2026 • Reddington Onyango • Artificial Intelligence in Business
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya are no strangers to challenges, but the digital age offers unprecedented opportunities for growth. One such opportunity lies in the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI), a technology that can significantly streamline operations and boost productivity. This article explores how AI can be harnessed to propel your SME towards success.
Let's dive into some examples of AI applications that can benefit Kenyan SMEs:
Customer service is essential for any business, and AI can help improve it by providing personalized experiences. Chatbots, powered by machine learning algorithms, can engage with customers in real-time, answering queries and providing recommendations based on their preferences.
Predictive analytics is another powerful AI application. By analyzing historical data, these tools can forecast trends and help businesses make informed decisions. For instance, a retail SME could use predictive analytics to determine the most profitable products or seasons for sales.
AI-driven accounting solutions automate repetitive tasks such as invoicing and expense tracking. This not only saves time but also reduces errors, leading to improved financial management. For Kenyan SMEs, this could mean fewer headaches during tax season.
According to a report by McKinsey, AI could potentially contribute $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030. In Kenya, AI adoption is on the rise, with a significant increase in investment and startups in this sector.