5th-Jan-2026 • Alice Wambui • Artificial Intelligence in Business
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya are constantly seeking innovative solutions to improve productivity, streamline operations, and gain a competitive edge. One such solution is Artificial Intelligence (AI). While AI may seem like a complex and expensive technology, it's increasingly becoming accessible for small businesses.
AI can automate routine tasks, analyze large volumes of data, and provide insights to make informed decisions. Let's look at some areas where AI can be beneficial for Kenyan SMEs:
Chatbots are AI-powered tools that can handle customer inquiries 24/7, freeing up your staff to focus on more critical tasks. For instance, Lipabiz's chatbot can assist with bill payments, account balances, and even loan applications.
AI can help businesses target their marketing efforts more effectively. It can analyze customer data to identify trends, preferences, and behaviors, enabling SMEs to tailor their marketing strategies for maximum impact.
AI-powered financial management tools can automate tasks such as invoicing, expense tracking, and cash flow forecasting. This not only saves time but also reduces the risk of errors.
AI can analyze large volumes of data quickly and accurately, providing valuable insights for decision-making. For example, an AI system could help a retailer identify which products are selling well and adjust inventory levels accordingly.
To get started with AI, Kenyan SMEs should consider partnering with tech companies that offer AI solutions tailored to their needs. Embracing AI can help these businesses stay competitive, improve efficiency, and ultimately grow.