Powering the Future of AI and Cloud in Kenya

This strategic partnership enables enterprise and government clients to access high power density infrastructure built specifically for AI and other compute-intensive workloads. Think AI training models, real-time data analytics, edge computing, cloud services, disaster recovery, and scalable bandwidth—all hosted locally with world-class standards.

“This collaboration represents a major milestone in our mission to become Africa’s leading purpose-led tech company by 2030,” said Dr. Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom PLC. “Businesses need robust, secure, and scalable digital infrastructure to keep up with the AI revolution. Partnering with iXAfrica enables us to deliver exactly that—while also supporting sustainability and local innovation.”

Inside the Infrastructure: AI at Scale

At the heart of this transformation is iXAfrica’s NBOX1 Nairobi Campus, designed with a massive 22.5MW capacity, making it the largest data centre project in Greater East Africa. It’s engineered to handle today’s most demanding computing tasks with advanced cooling, energy efficiency, and redundant connectivity. Its location—intersecting key fiber routes and tapping into Kenya’s renewable energy grid—provides low-latency, high-reliability infrastructure with a light environmental footprint.

The offering includes:

• Dedicated enterprise and cloud suites starting at 350kW, scaling up to over 1MW

• Integrated connectivity and managed services through Safaricom’s enterprise network

• Colocation options (starting at 2U), hybrid cloud support, cybersecurity, and business continuity services

• AI compliance and data sovereignty support to meet local and international standards

For industries like financial services, this means faster fraud detection and smarter credit risk models. In manufacturing and retail, companies can now run localized AI workloads to drive IoT analytics, forecast demand, and streamline supply chains—without shipping data across borders.

A Unified Vision for a Digital Africa

According to Guy Willner, Chairman of iXAfrica, the partnership “represents a perfect synergy between technological excellence and market leadership.” By combining iXAfrica’s world-class infrastructure with Safaricom’s extensive market reach, the two companies are creating a new digital backbone for Kenya and the wider region.

This partnership isn’t just about speed or scale—it’s about enabling enterprise agility, innovation, and growth. Whether you’re a startup exploring generative AI or a bank scaling its digital transformation strategy, this AI-ready ecosystem provides the tools to execute bold ideas—locally and securely.

Why It Matters

With over 49 million Safaricom subscribers, deep expertise in fintech, enterprise connectivity, and mobile innovation, and now access to AI-ready infrastructure, Kenyan businesses are better positioned than ever to lead Africa’s digital future.

As AI reshapes every sector, local access to compliant, high-performance computing will become a necessity—not a luxury. And with this new chapter, Safaricom and iXAfrica are laying the groundwork for a tech-driven, inclusive, and intelligent East Africa.

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But this M&A-driven agenda isn’t the only transformational move on Safaricom’s radar. In a separate interview on Citizen TV, Ndegwa provided more context about the company’s wider ambitions—including its critical role in digitizing Kenya’s healthcare system through the Social Health Authority (SHA) initiative.

From Telco to Tech Giant

Safaricom’s shift to M&A is aligned with its long-term vision of becoming a fully-fledged technology company. The focus areas for potential acquisitions include cybersecurity, ICT services, broadband infrastructure, and fintech—sectors that complement its existing enterprise and consumer offerings. Ndegwa noted that such acquisitions would help Safaricom enhance its service delivery, especially for corporate clients, and help it scale new products faster.

The strategy marks a departure from traditional telecom growth, with the company now prioritizing partnerships and investments that can deliver both scale and agility. With eyes also set on regional markets, Safaricom is evaluating opportunities to deepen its presence in East Africa and beyond.

Clarifying the Company’s Role in SHA

In the Citizen TV interview, Ndegwa addressed growing public interest in Safaricom’s involvement with SHA—a nationwide initiative intended to digitize healthcare services and ensure universal health access. He was clear: Safaricom is not managing funds or delivering health services. Instead, the telco is supplying digital infrastructure, such as tablets for community health workers, and enhancing network connectivity to support seamless healthcare delivery.

Importantly, Safaricom has not yet been paid for this work. Ndegwa explained that compensation will only be provided after successful implementation and verification of project milestones, reinforcing the company’s commitment to accountability and value delivery.

Tech with Purpose

These two interviews collectively paint a picture of a company doubling down on innovation, social impact, and strategic expansion. Whether it’s acquiring high-potential startups or enabling a digitally connected healthcare system, Safaricom is positioning itself as a purpose-led tech leader in the region.

As Safaricom turns the page into this new chapter, industry watchers will be paying close attention to how these bold strategies shape not just the company’s future, but also Kenya’s evolving digital ecosystem.

Watch the full interviews for more insight:

• Kenyan Wall Street Interview – Peter Ndegwa on M&A Strategy

• Citizen TV Power Talk – Peter Ndegwa on SHA and Safaricom’s Tech Vision

The post Safaricom Eyes Mergers, Acquisitions, and Digital Health in Its Next Growth Chapter appeared first on Biz Post Daily.

The service is now active for every Airtel Kenya user, offering powerful protection against fraudsters and those irritating promotional texts that clog up your inbox. It works quietly in the background, using smart AI technology to spot spam messages before they ever reach you.

Here’s how it helps you: the system looks at over 250 factors, including how often a number sends messages and where those messages are going. If something looks suspicious, the message gets flagged as ‘Suspected SPAM’ so you can easily spot and ignore it. And it does all this without reading the actual content of your private texts—so your privacy stays intact.

What makes this even better is that it’s built right into the Airtel network. No need to download third-party apps that can compromise your data. This protection is automatically switched on for every Airtel SIM user, offering peace of mind with zero setup hassle.

Beyond stopping spam, the service also watches out for scam links. If someone tries to trick you with a malicious website sent via SMS, you’ll get an alert before you click. That’s a big win, especially when you consider that, according to a 2019 report, the average Kenyan mobile user was hit with over 100 spam messages a month.

For you, this means fewer distractions, less risk of falling for scams, and a cleaner, safer mobile experience. And since it’s free and automatic, there’s nothing you need to do—just enjoy the added layer of protection.

With this update, Airtel is making it easier for you to stay safe and spam-free every day. You can read more about how the technology works here, but rest assured: the next time a spammer tries to reach you, Airtel’s AI is already one step ahead.

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Recent trends in the smartphone manufacturing industry have made it possible for the average smartphone users to easily have access smartphones that have features and designs that would otherwise be beyond their budget.

According to Communications Authority of Kenya the current smartphone usage and penetration rate stands at 72.6% representing 37.4 million devices in the country. Experts  predict that more individuals will acquire smartphones due to their growing affordability and initiatives to enhance internet connectivity and digital literacy.

Traditionally, for one able to access a phone that ticked all the right boxes  with regards to smartphone performance, software and hardware, one had to dig deep in their pockets to be able to afford high performing and durable devices, this was  an ability reserved for the elite in the society.

Through democratization of technology flagship smartphone features such as 5G connectivity, Generative AI, AI LinkBoost, large battery capacities, IP69/68/67 water resistant levels and military graded shock resistance are now available for midrange and budget smartphones. Some smartphone manufacturers have introduced these features to their mid-range and budget devices. Offering consumers, a chance at accessing durable and high-performance smartphones at a reasonable cost.

Some of these budget devices even boast of the highest smartphone IP rating and other features previously reserved for high-end devices to enhance user experience.

While democratizing technology and AI continue to make smartphones accessible to their users, financial accessibility of these devices remains a key challenge for smartphone manufacturers. This is where Buy  Now Pay Later (BNPL)/ Lipa Pole Pole services assist consumers to acquire smartphones. BNPL providers have partnered with smartphone manufacturers to offer flexible payment plans, that  allow users to pay for devices in instalments rather than upfront purchase.

The impact of  BNPL services on smartphone adoption is undeniable.  Currently the  sector has seen a growth of 6.2% in 2024 up from 2.1% in 2021 according to FinAccess survey.  This growth trajectory is expected to continue at a CAGR of about 9% and by 2030, the sector  is projected to be valued at approximately USD 1.86 billion, according to Business Wire.

Recognizing the synergy between device innovation and financial inclusion, smartphone manufacturers are partnering with local BNPL service providers in Kenya to offer tailored device financing options for its consumers, effectively lowering the entry barrier to reliable, durable and innovative devices and fostering digital transformation in the Kenyan market.

As smartphones manufactures continue to develop the latest technology in smartphone and BNPL service providers expanding their services, our own mission at OPPO, to democratize AI and have technology for all will become a reality.  By incorporating inclusive designs and features for different smartphone users.

The author is the PR Manager at OPPO Kenya

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The Jaws Trend: Turning Suspense Into Comedy

The iconic suspense of the Jaws theme has found new life on TikTok. In this trend, creators use the building intensity of the music to mimic a slow, dramatic approach—often popping in and out of frame with each beat. Think of it as a shark circling its target, but with a twist: the target is usually something relatable and irresistible, like a midnight snack or a well-earned glass of wine. The humor lies in the exaggerated build-up to these everyday indulgences, turning suspense into laugh-out-loud comedy.

Party 4 U Heartbreak Bridge: Soundtracking Our Feels

Charli XCX’s dreamy track “party 4 u” has made a major comeback, specifically its emotional bridge. TikTokers are using this part of the song to share personal and poignant moments—the times when they felt out of sync with the world, faced rejection, or went through heartbreak. The trend thrives on its raw authenticity, as creators open up about those universal low points when it felt like this song was playing on repeat in their heads. It’s a powerful example of how music and shared vulnerability can create a collective experience online.

The ‘Have I Changed?’ Trend: Mini Transformation Arcs

Pairing the reflective tones of Empirical’s “Dreamz” with before-and-after storytelling, the “Have I Changed?” trend taps into TikTok’s love for transformation. It typically starts with a vulnerable prompt like “Have I changed?” or “Will I make it?” followed by a jump cut that reveals growth—whether it’s an emotional breakthrough, a fitness glow-up, or even a style evolution. This trend offers creators a way to visually narrate their progress and healing journeys, resonating with anyone who’s ever asked themselves the same reflective questions.

The post 3 TikTok Trends That Ruled April: Jaws Meme, Party 4 U Heartbreak & Have I Changed Challenge appeared first on Biz Post Daily.

Airtel has signed a deal with SpaceX to use Starlink’s satellite internet service across Africa, with Kenya among the first countries to benefit. Other countries in the initial rollout include Nigeria, Rwanda, Zambia, Malawi, and the DRC.

For many Kenyans living in remote parts of Turkana, Garissa, Marsabit, and even rural pockets of Rift Valley and the Coast, stable internet has long been a distant dream. Now, this partnership promises to change that.

By using Starlink’s powerful satellites and Airtel’s existing mobile network, fast and reliable internet could soon reach places where laying cables or building towers isn’t practical.

“This is about making sure no one is left behind,” said Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar. “With next-generation satellite technology, we can bring affordable connectivity to areas that have been underserved for too long.”

The move is expected to be a game changer for schools, hospitals, and small businesses operating outside major towns. In rural clinics, better internet can mean faster communication with doctors in Nairobi.

For farmers, it can open access to online markets and real-time weather updates. And for students, it offers a chance to tap into online learning resources — something that became especially crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic.

But the benefits won’t just stop at internet access. Airtel and SpaceX are also exploring ways to use Starlink satellites to improve mobile phone network coverage in areas where building new infrastructure is costly or difficult.

With Kenya already leading Africa in mobile money and digital services, this partnership could push the country even further ahead. It’s also likely to heat up competition in the telecom sector, encouraging other players like Safaricom and Telkom Kenya to step up their own digital inclusion efforts.

Chad Gibbs, SpaceX’s VP for Starlink Business Operations, called the deal a “natural fit,” noting Airtel’s strong presence in Africa and Starlink’s mission to connect the unconnected.

Looking ahead, there could be even more collaboration between the two companies — including using Airtel’s local infrastructure to expand Starlink’s footprint and creating hybrid solutions that blend satellite and mobile technologies.

For now, though, the message is clear: Kenya’s digital divide may finally start to close, bringing the power of the internet to even the remotest homes, schools, and businesses.

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So, What’s the Deal with the Proposed Crypto Tax Change in Kenya?

Right now, if you transfer or exchange digital assets, there’s a 3% tax slapped on the transaction value. But, the draft Finance Bill, 2025 Kenya wants to shake things up.

The bill proposes tweaking the Income Tax Act to lower this rate. Specifically, it suggests changing the relevant part to read “one point five per cent” instead of the current “three per cent”. If this goes through, the crypto tax in Kenya on transactions would be halved to just 1.5%!  

What Counts as a Digital Asset? (Crypto & NFT Tax Kenya)

This Kenya digital asset tax covers those digital things of value that aren’t physical. Think:

• Cryptocurrencies: Like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others you might be trading or holding.
• NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens): Those unique digital tokens proving you own digital art, collectibles, etc. Yes, the NFT tax Kenya rules apply here too.

Why This Potential Tax Cut Matters for You and Kenya

Lowering the digital asset tax Kenya could mean a few positive things:

• More Affordable Transactions: Simply put, trading or sending cryptocurrency in Kenya could cost you less in taxes.
• Growth Spurt? A friendlier tax rate might encourage more Kenyans (maybe even you!) to explore digital assets. We’re already seeing growth, with projections hitting over 730,000 users soon.
• Market Buzz: This could give Kenya’s digital asset scene an extra boost.

Keeping Things Safe: The Bigger Picture of Digital Asset Regulation Kenya

While this potential tax cut is great news, it’s happening alongside efforts to make the digital asset space safer. You might have heard about the digital asset regulation Kenya discussions, like the Virtual Assets Service Providers (VASP) Bill. This aims to bring more transparency, asking exchanges to know who owns the assets, which helps tackle crime. It’s all part of balancing growth with security, especially since many Kenyans use crypto for savings, sending money, or even business imports.

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This comes hot on the heels of their impressive victory at the East Africa Regional Finals held right here in Nairobi, proving that Kenyan innovation is ready to compete on a global stage.

Jenga AI’s story began with a simple question: Why should inefficiency be an accepted cost of doing business for subcontractors in commercial construction?

Founders Shayne and Nym, drawing on Nym’s experience as a large specialty contractor in New York City, recognized the immense waste of time and resources associated with manual bidding processes. With win rates typically hovering around 20%, estimators were spending 80% of their time on projects that never materialized.

This realization sparked the creation of JENGAI, an analytical CRM designed to empower subcontractors to focus on the right projects, avoid wasted time, and maximize their efforts.

So, what’s the Datamellon AI Ignite all about? It’s a program designed to supercharge promising AI startups. Think of it as a launchpad, offering a powerful combination of resources:

• Ksh 13 Million in Seed Funding (Equity-Free!): That’s a serious boost to get things moving.
• Ksh 260 Million Investment Fund Access: Top performers get a shot at even more funding to scale their operations.
• Silicon Valley Exposure: The chance to pitch to the big leagues – investors and tech gurus in the heart of Silicon Valley.
• Expert Mentorship: Eight weeks of guidance from industry veterans to refine their strategy and execution.
• Cutting-Edge Infrastructure: Access to Datamellon’s AI and cloud resources, essential for building and scaling their solutions.

Jenga AI’s win in Nairobi wasn’t just luck. It showcased the ingenuity and problem-solving skills that are becoming hallmarks of Kenyan startups.

Their innovative approach caught the judges’ attention, demonstrating the potential to create real impact and disrupt traditional industries. Now, as they prepare for Marrakech, they’re carrying the hopes of Kenya’s tech community with them.

This victory is a testament to the growing strength of Kenya’s tech ecosystem. We’re seeing a surge in talented developers, a supportive community of investors and mentors, and increasing access to the resources needed to build world-class companies.

Jenga AI’s success is a sign that Kenya is becoming a force to be reckoned with in the global AI landscape.

Programs like Datamellon AI Ignite are crucial for fueling this growth. They provide the capital, mentorship, and exposure that startups need to overcome challenges and reach their full potential.

By connecting Kenyan innovators with global networks, they’re helping to build a vibrant and competitive tech sector that can drive economic growth and create opportunities for Kenyans.

This is a chance to showcase Kenyan ingenuity to the world and attract even more investment and opportunities to our growing tech ecosystem.

Datamellon, with its strong presence across Africa, is a key partner in this journey. As an AWS Advanced Consulting Partner, they’re providing the essential infrastructure, expertise, and support needed to help Kenyan startups thrive.

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The study projects that 40% of tasks in Africa’s tech outsourcing sector could be automated by 2030, presenting both challenges and opportunities for the industry and its employees.

Kenya’s BPO Boom and the AI Disruption:

Kenya’s BPO market is projected to reach $272.10 million in 2025, with an impressive annual growth rate of 5.96%. This growth is expected to continue, reaching a market volume of $343.00 million by 2029. The Kenyan government aims to create 1 million BPO/ITES jobs in the next five years through supportive policies and incentives.

However, the report highlights that automation could slow down this trajectory. Specifically, Customer Experience roles, which constitute 44% of current employment in the African BPO sector, are particularly vulnerable, with half of the tasks at risk of automation.

Key Findings of the Report:

• 40% of tasks in Africa’s BPO and ITES sectors could be automated by 2030.
• Only 10% of tasks are fully resilient to automation.
• Customer Experience roles are most vulnerable, with 50% of tasks automatable.
• Entry-level jobs, comprising 68% of the workforce, are significantly affected.
• Tasks performed by women are 10% more susceptible to automation than those performed by men.

Opportunities for Upskilling and Growth:

Despite the potential for job displacement, the report emphasizes that AI also creates opportunities for workers to transition into higher-skilled, higher-paying roles. Strategic investment in widespread AI upskilling and training is crucial to unlocking Africa’s $35 billion BPO potential by 2028.

Rodwell Mangisi, Director of Digital Economy Pan African Programs at the Mastercard Foundation, stated, “Africa’s tech outsourcing industry is expanding rapidly, adding new jobs and opportunities each year.

“As AI transforms global business processes, Africa can lead by ensuring its workforce is AI-ready. By investing in targeted upskilling programs, especially for women and young professionals, we can ensure this 6% annual growth translates into sustainable, high-value employment that benefits all demographics.”

AI Integration and the Changing Role of Workers:

AI is already integrated into Africa’s BPO and ITES sectors, driving efficiency and innovation. Workers are using tools like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and in-house chatbots to enhance productivity, creativity, and accuracy. This allows employees to focus on strategic problem-solving, decision-making, and higher-value tasks, leading to opportunities for career advancement.

Addressing the Challenges and Ensuring Equitable Growth:

The report acknowledges that AI’s rapid rise could disproportionately impact certain roles, particularly entry-level positions held by women and youth. To mitigate these risks, AI-driven upskilling programs are needed to enable workers to shift into higher-skilled roles in areas like cybersecurity, AI management, and data services.

Charlene Migwe, Program Director at Caribou, emphasized, “Africa’s tech outsourcing sector is at a pivotal moment. With the right investments in skills development, ethical AI, and inclusive policies, we can transform the risks of automation into new opportunities for innovation and resilience.

The future of Africa’s BPO and ITES sectors hinges on proactive measures to address the challenges and capitalize on the opportunities presented by AI automation.

By investing in equitable AI upskilling and reskilling efforts, the industry can ensure that all demographics, particularly women and young professionals, can transition into future-proof roles and contribute to sustainable economic growth. The key is to embrace AI as a tool for empowerment and innovation, rather than a threat to employment.

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We know you need a phone that can withstand the unexpected. The A5 Pro is built with IP69/68/66 water and dust resistance, meaning it can survive splashes, spills, and the occasional downpour. It’s also designed to handle everyday bumps and drops, giving you a bit more peace of mind.

Sleek Design, Practical Durability:

The A5 Pro maintains a slim profile, available in Mocha Brown and Olive Green. It’s designed to be comfortable to hold and easy to carry, without sacrificing durability.

Performance You Can Depend On:

This phone is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon® 6s 4G Gen1 Mobile Platform, providing reliable performance for your daily tasks. With up to 8GB of RAM, expandable for smoother multitasking, and ColorOS 15 Lite, it aims to provide a consistent user experience.

Features For Your Lifestyle:

• Battery Life: A 5,800mAh battery with 45W SUPERVOOCTM Flash Charge to keep you going.
• Camera: A 50MP main camera and AI-enhanced features for capturing everyday moments.
• Entertainment: Features to enhance your viewing and gaming experience.

Availability and Options:

The OPPO A5 Pro is available now, starting at 29,999 Ksh (RRP), at OPPO shops, online platforms, and the OPPO Kenya website.

• Payment Plans: The “Lipa Pole Pole” option through Onphone allows you to acquire the phone with a 20% deposit.
• Added Value: Each purchase includes a selection of gifts and protection plans.

The OPPO A5 Pro focuses on providing a durable and dependable smartphone experience, designed to fit seamlessly into your daily routine. It’s about having a device that works when you need it, without the added worry of everyday damage.

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