7th-Nov-2025 • Maxwel Odira • Artificial Intelligence in Business
Welcome to a new era of business growth, Kenyan entrepreneurs! Today, we're diving into the game-changing world of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This powerful technology is no longer confined to science fiction but is rapidly being adopted by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across Kenya and Africa.
So, what exactly is AI? Simply put, it's a system or machine that can perform tasks that would normally require human intelligence. This includes learning, problem-solving, and decision-making.
But why should your SME care about AI? Let's look at some compelling reasons:
AI can streamline routine tasks, freeing up valuable time for you to focus on strategic decisions. For instance, AI-powered chatbots can handle customer inquiries 24/7, reducing waiting times and improving customer satisfaction.
AI can analyze vast amounts of data to understand your customers' preferences and behaviors. This insight enables you to offer personalized products or services, fostering loyalty and boosting sales.
AI can forecast trends based on historical data. This capability empowers SMEs to make informed decisions, optimize resources, and minimize risks in areas like inventory management or marketing strategies.
Kenya's leading fintech companies have already embraced AI. M-Shwari, a product of Safaricom and Commercial Bank of Africa, uses AI to analyze loan repayment patterns, helping it make quicker, fairer lending decisions.
Don't feel overwhelmed! Start small. Identify processes that consume the most time or resources, and explore AI solutions to automate them. Engage with tech-savvy partners like Lipabiz Technologies Ltd who can guide you on your AI journey.