10th-Feb-2026 • Faith Chebet • Future of Work
In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya are not immune to the transformative impact of the Future of Work. This shift encompasses a myriad of trends shaping the way we work, collaborate, and innovate. By embracing these changes, Kenyan SMEs can position themselves for growth and success.
One significant change is the rise of flexible work arrangements, allowing employees to work from home or remotely. According to a 2021 survey by Tizeti, a Nigerian internet service provider, 68% of African remote workers reported increased productivity when working from home.
Digital transformation is another crucial aspect of the Future of Work. Businesses must adopt digital tools to streamline operations, improve customer experiences, and gain a competitive edge. Lipabiz Technologies Ltd, a Kenyan business management platform and payments solution, offers an all-in-one solution for SMEs to manage their financials, inventory, sales, and more.
Automation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are reshaping various aspects of the workforce. These technologies can help businesses reduce manual labor, optimize processes, and make data-driven decisions. For example, AI can be used for predictive analytics to forecast sales trends or customer behavior.
The Future of Work also emphasizes the importance of upskilling and reskilling employees to adapt to new technologies and business environments. By investing in employee development, businesses can foster a culture of innovation and continuous learning.
To thrive in the Future of Work, Kenyan SMEs must be proactive and embrace these changes. Adopting flexible work arrangements, leveraging digital tools, integrating automation and AI, and investing in employee development will empower businesses to navigate the evolving business landscape with confidence.
