2nd-Feb-2026 • Maxwel Odira • African Innovation
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) form the backbone of Kenya's economy, accounting for approximately 98% of all businesses. However, navigating the competitive landscape can be challenging, especially in a rapidly evolving digital age. This is where African innovation steps in, offering innovative solutions that cater specifically to the needs of SMEs.
One such innovation is Lipabiz Technologies Ltd, a business management and payments platform designed to streamline operations for Kenyan SMEs. By providing tools for invoicing, accounting, inventory management, and payments, Lipabiz empowers businesses to operate more efficiently and focus on growth.
According to the World Bank, digital adoption by Kenyan SMEs has been on a steady rise, with 60% of businesses now using digital platforms for their operations. This trend is expected to continue, as more African innovations are developed to cater to the unique challenges faced by SMEs in Kenya.
Another example of African innovation is M-Shwari, a mobile banking platform launched by Safaricom and Commercial Bank of Africa. This platform offers savings accounts, loans, and insurance services, making financial services more accessible to the unbanked population, many of whom are SME owners.
Data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics shows that M-Shwari has over 20 million active users, with the majority being SME owners. This demonstrates the transformative power of African innovation in providing financial services to those who need them most.
For Kenyan SMEs looking to embrace African innovation, it's important to stay informed about new developments and choose solutions that align with their specific needs. By leveraging these innovative tools, SMEs can not only compete effectively in the market but also drive economic growth and development.
In the end, it's clear that African innovation is revolutionizing the business landscape for Kenyan SMEs. By embracing these innovative solutions, SMEs can streamline their operations, access new markets, and ultimately, achieve success in a competitive environment.