Kenya’s BPO sector creates 40,000 jobs, targets growth
NAIROBI, KENYA — Kenya’s business process outsourcing (BPO) sector has created over 40,000 jobs, fueled by favorable policies and increased investment from multinational companies.
This milestone was highlighted by John Tanui, principal secretary in the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, during a policy briefing in Nairobi on revitalizing the digital economy.
“As an emerging space for our country, BPO is providing opportunities for digital workers. We have multinational companies that have set up shop here, and we expect to see increased demand for BPO services in the near future,” said Tanui.
The sector’s rapid growth underscores Kenya’s strategic efforts to leverage its skilled workforce and robust infrastructure to combat youth unemployment while boosting foreign exchange earnings.
Policy reforms drive sector expansion
The Kenyan government has implemented legislative reforms to enhance job security and welfare for local youth employed by global outsourcing firms. Companies such as Teleperformance, CCI, and Samasource have already established operations in Kenya, contributing significantly to employment growth.
Dennis Itumbi, head of creative economy and special projects at the Executive Office of the President, noted that state-led initiatives are key to the sector’s success. These include governance reforms, skills development programs, and improved access to electricity and high-speed internet.
“The government has increased investments in digital hubs, introduced zero-rating for imported computers, and eliminated bureaucratic barriers to facilitate investments in the sector,” Itumbi said. These measures have also expanded remote work opportunities for young Kenyans.
Ambitious growth targets set
Looking ahead, Kenya aims to create 500,000 jobs in the BPO industry over the next few years. To achieve this goal, the government is focusing on training youth in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML).
A presidential roundtable on accelerating BPO growth is scheduled for later this year to further strategize on expanding opportunities in this burgeoning sector.
As one of Africa’s leading economies in outsourcing services—alongside South Africa, Egypt, and Nigeria—Kenya is positioning itself as a hub for digital outsourcing while addressing unemployment challenges among its youth population.
Key investments fuel digital economy
The government has also prioritized investments in digital infrastructure to attract more investors. By fostering a favorable business environment and equipping its workforce with future-ready skills, Kenya continues to solidify its status as a leader in Africa’s BPO landscape.
