Jumia Kenya is intensifying efforts to integrate small businesses into the digital economy through a hands-on benchmarking tour that provided 30 entrepreneurs with essential e-commerce training. The session, held at Jumia’s Nairobi facility, offered practical insights into logistics, cashless transactions, and digital operations, equipping micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with tools to scale their businesses.
A guided tour of Jumia’s warehouse exposed participants to inventory management, order fulfillment, and last-mile delivery strategies, demonstrating how e-commerce platforms can significantly enhance efficiency and market access. With Kenya ranking as Africa’s third-largest e-commerce market, the country’s rising internet penetration, tech-savvy youth population, and mobile adoption rates exceeding 40% make digital commerce a key avenue for SME growth.
Jumia’s Regional CEO for East Africa, Vinod Goel, emphasized three crucial pillars for e-commerce success: seamless information exchange through digital platforms, efficient logistics for timely deliveries, and secure cashless payment systems. He encouraged SMEs to embrace these elements to boost visibility, streamline operations, and drive sales.
“By leveraging e-commerce, SMEs can expand their market reach, improve efficiency, and drive sustainable growth,” Goel stated, highlighting the transformative potential of digital platforms.
Despite the opportunities e-commerce presents, SMEs still face challenges such as limited market access, inadequate marketing skills, and financial constraints. The World Bank’s 2018 Enterprise Survey has underscored these barriers, reinforcing the need for targeted training and digital adoption.
Mary Ngechu, KEPSA Board Director in charge of SMEs and Startups, echoed the importance of leveraging Jumia’s ecosystem for business growth. She urged entrepreneurs to explore Jumia’s marketing and logistics support and take advantage of initiatives like the Jiinue Growth Program, which provides affordable financing options.
“The benchmarking tour underscored the transformative power of e-commerce for SMEs. By collaborating with industry leaders like Jumia, KEPSA continues to equip entrepreneurs with practical tools and insights to navigate the digital economy, fostering long-term business sustainability,” Ngechu remarked.
As Kenya’s e-commerce sector continues to expand, initiatives like Jumia’s training programs will play a crucial role in empowering small businesses to thrive in the digital era.
