The Most Promising Tech Jobs in Kenya: A List of Opportunities for the Future
Kenya’s tech industry is a shining light of opportunity, rapidly gaining recognition as the ‘Silicon Savannah’ of the continent. With a dynamic tech sector that nurtures both local and international talent, Kenya is making its mark on the global stage. The government’s supportive policies have created a favorable environment for tech start-ups to thrive. In this blog post, we’ll explore the most promising tech jobs in Kenya, providing a glimpse into the current scenario and future prospects of this rapidly growing industry. So, without further ado, let’s delve into the vibrant world of Kenyan tech
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| Harnessing productivity in a modern office setting: A professional immersed in work on their laptop |
THE RISE OF TECH JOBS IN KENYA
The
rise of tech jobs has increased over the last couple of years. In just a few
years Kenya has become one of the leading tech hubs in Africa and tech jobs are
now in demand across a range of industries from the Communication industry,
Fintech companies, Tech startups, and many more.
However, there are a number of factors that have contributed to the rise of Tech jobs in Kenya among them being the country's young educated population. According to Statista Kenya has a median age of 20.1years which is due to the decline of fertility rates or improvements in life expectancy and with 63.9 million Kenyans using mobile phones translating to 117.2 percent it has created a large pool of potential tech workers with skills and knowledge required to succeed in the tech industry
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| Visualizing the Rise of Tech Jobs in Kenya: A Look at the Impact of the Young Educated Population and Mobile Phone Usage. |
The surge in tech jobs in Kenya can be largely attributed to the government’s proactive support for the tech sector. The Kenyan government has rolled out numerous initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, with a particular emphasis on enhancing digital skills nationwide. A prime example of this is the Ajira Digital Program, launched by the Ministry of ICT. This program is designed to familiarize young people with digital and digitally-enabled work, equipping them with the necessary tools, training, and mentorship to earn a dignified income. Let’s delve deeper into this initiative.
The
rise of tech jobs has been driven by the increasing adoption of technology by
businesses across all sectors of the economy. Right now in Kenya, businesses
are increasingly using technology to improve efficiency and competitiveness
ranging from farming to market centers where the governments work to ensure
that there are wifi hotspots in every part of the country.
Some
good examples of the rise of Tech jobs in Kenya include;
1. The
number of startups has increased significantly from a few dozen in 2010 to over
1,000 today. As per Statista,
2. International
tech companies such as Google, Microsoft, and IBM have all established offices
in Kenya
3. Kenyan
tech companies expanding their operations and hiring more employees
4. The
average salary of a Kenyan tech worker is KES 38,617 (minimum) to KES 148,287
(Highest average, actual maximum salary is higher). This has motivated a lot of
young individuals to stand up for themselves and get to know the skills of the
tech industry
5. Kenya
is now home to several tech hubs including ihub which is an innovation hub and
hacker space for the technology community in Nairobi
INCREASING DEMAND FOR TECH SKILLS
Kenya
is among the fastest-growing economies in Africa with the tech sector being at
the forefront. The growth is creating new business opportunities and many of
these opportunities demand tech skills
According
to a World Bank study, Kenya saw an increase in demand for digital skills by 38
percent annually.
Some
of the factors driving the increase in demand for tech skills in Kenya include;
RAPID ECONOMIC GROWTH
The World Bank paints an optimistic picture for Kenya’s economic future, predicting a robust growth rate of 5.0% in 2023. This follows a period of economic ups and downs, with a notable expansion of 7.5% in 2021, even amidst hurdles in areas such as tourism. However, the nation’s GDP took a hit in 2022, declining by 4.8%. Despite this downturn, the economy is set to bounce back in 2023, with a promising growth rate of 5.0%.
INCREASING ADOPTION OF TECHNOLOGY
Kenyan businesses are progressively leveraging technology to
enhance their operations and competitiveness. This is evident in the job market,
where the demand for tech skills is on the rise, and individuals are
increasingly acquiring these skills to meet market needs.
Moreover, the requirement for digital skills
extends beyond the tech sector, encompassing areas such as agriculture and
tourism. Thus, digital skills can foster growth in businesses across various
sectors.
When it comes to innovation and development,
the presence of tech-skilled individuals leads to an increase in locally
tailored tech solutions. This not only promotes the use and acceptance of
technology but also drives innovation.
Within the scope of education and training, it’s
estimated that by 2030, 50-55% of jobs in Kenya will necessitate some level of
digital skills. This is attributed to the adoption of 5G networks, cloud
technologies, data centers, and SMEs, as per a study conducted by Huawei Kenya,
UNESCO, and the Africa Center for Technology Study (ACTS).
Finally, infrastructure development is
crucial. The rise in digital skills has prompted policymakers and the private
sector to enhance necessary infrastructure. This includes government support,
digital infrastructure, broadband connectivity, the Digital Economy Blueprint,
and E-Mobility.
THRIVING STARTUP ECOSYSTEM
With
new startups being launched almost every tech startup in Kenya is expected to
pick up in the first place. A good example is M-Pesa which has revolutionized
mobile money by providing access to financial services to a lot of Kenyans
across the country
When
it comes to agriculture Twiga Foods is the most
successful technology-enabled food distribution company one Kenya it connects
smallholder farmers with markets and financial services which helps to improve
their accessibility to markets and increase their income.
GOVERNMENT SUPPORT
The
Kenyan government has been supportive of the tech sector implementing several
initiatives to promote innovation and entrepreneurship. Such include;
- Access to finance -The Kenyan government has extended numerous tax incentives and other benefits to tech companies. A prime example of this is the Kenya Development Bank, which offers cost-effective financing options for tech startups and SMEs. Additionally, the government has introduced loan programs specifically for tech startups. For instance, Twiga Foods received a loan of KES 300 million, which was used for lending to suppliers and customers.
- Incubators and innovation hubs- In the bustling world of startups, numerous incubators and innovation hubs are making a significant impact. These platforms are nurturing startups from their infancy, providing them with the essential mentorship they need to thrive. One of the key ways these incubators support businesses is by offering resources like office space and expert guidance. Take iHub, for instance. Established in 2010, iHub has been instrumental in the success of many tech startups. Companies like Twiga Foods, Ushahidi, and M-Kopa have all benefited from iHub's supportive environment. This goes to show the pivotal role that incubators play in fostering innovation and driving the success of startups.
- Business support services: There are several Business support services in Kenya that have supported and continue to support Tech startups in Kenya. They offer services such as training, capacity building, and mentorship. Such business support services include Kenya National Innovation Agency, Startup Grind Nairobi, mest Africa IBM entrepreneurship center, and Google Launchpad Accelerator Africa
- Skills development: The Kenyan government’s
commitment to fostering skill development is a powerful catalyst for job
creation. Enhancing the pool of skilled workers, not only bridges the
skills gap but also boosts productivity and competitiveness. This, in
turn, fuels innovation and promotes social mobility.
A prime example of this initiative is the Digital Blueprint, launched by the government in 2019. This comprehensive strategy outlines the five pillars of the digital economy: digital government, digital business, infrastructure, innovation-driven entrepreneurship, and digital skills and values. This blueprint serves as a roadmap for Kenya’s digital future, highlighting the government’s dedication to nurturing a digitally skilled workforce and a thriving digital economy.
- Public-private partnerships by
supporting public-private
partnerships (PPPs) by the Kenyan government help create new job
opportunities for Kenyans of all skills. This collaboration between the
public and private sectors can provide funding, resources, and expertise
to Tech startups in Kenya
And now, the moment you’ve all been eagerly anticipating! You
might be wondering, “What are the most promising tech jobs in Kenya?” Well,
you’re in luck! I’m here to provide a detailed exploration of this topic. So,
without further ado, let’s dive right in!
1. IT MANAGERS
An IT Manager is an integral role within any organization. They
shoulder the responsibility of strategizing, implementing, and managing the
organization’s Information Technology (IT) systems and infrastructure. Their
expertise ensures the seamless operation of IT-related aspects, contributing to
the overall efficiency of the organization.
Known as the silicon savannah the ICT sector in Kenya has grown by
10.8% since 2016 and is expected to contribute 9.24% of the country's GDP by
2025
ROLE OF IT MANAGERS
1. Driving
innovation: By identifying and implementing technologies that can help
businesses improve their efficiency and productivity
2. Plan
and implement systems and infrastructure-:IT managers are responsible for
identifying the IT needs of organizations and developing and implementing IT
solutions to meet those needs which include selecting and installing hardware
and software and developing and implementing IT policies and procedures
3. Overseeing
a team of IT professionals: IT managers are responsible for hiring,
training, and supervising IT staff. Also, they delegate tasks and
responsibilities and ensure that the IT team is working efficiently and
effectively
4. Manage
the day-to-day operations of the IT system: IT managers are responsible for
monitoring the IT systems for performance and security issues and resolving any
problems that may arise and they also maintain IT systems by ensuring they are up-to-date
and secure
5. Work
with other departments within the organization to ensure the IT systems
are aligned with the organization's business goals: They work with other
departments to understand their needs and develop IT solutions that meet those
needs and they also work with other departments to implement and use IT systems
efficiently
6. Keep
up with the latest trends and technologies: IT managers need to be
up-to-date with new trends and technologies to ensure that the organization's
IT systems are up-to-date and secure
Some key areas where IT managers may play a key role include
1. Promoting
digital literacy and skill development: They do this by developing and
delivering training programs on IT skills and by providing mentorship and
support
2. Supporting
innovation and entrepreneurship: By providing funding and resources to
early-stage tech startups
3. Promoting
the use of ICT in government and public services: IT managers can achieve
this by working with government agencies to develop and implement IT
solutions
IMPORTANCE OF IT MANAGERS
IT managers play a vital role in ensuring the IT systems and
infrastructure and organizations are running smoothly and efficiently
especially here in Kenya where demand is high as a result of the rapid growth
of tech sectors
Reasons why IT managers are so important.
1. To
manage the country's growing tech sector: Kenya is one of the
fastest-growing tech sectors in Africa and IT managers are therefore essential
for managing this growth.
2. To
help businesses adopt new technologies: IT managers play a vital role in
helping businesses to adopt new technologies by providing them with the
necessary expertise and support this is because Kenyan businesses are
increasingly adopting new technologies to improve their efficiency
3. To
protect businesses from cyber-attacks: Cyber threats have been a major
threat to many people and organizations of all sizes including government
services a good example is the attack of the E-Citizen where IT managers
are the ones responsible for implementing and managing security measures to
protect businesses and government agencies from cyber attacks
4. The
bridge of the digital divide: Kenya is really working to bridge the digital
divide and IT managers play a role in this effort by helping to make IT more
accessible and affordable for businesses and individuals
5. Economic
growth: The tech sector is a major contributor to the economy of Kenya IT
managers play a big role in economic growth by helping businesses improve their
efficiency
2. SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS
A software developer is a person who creates computer programs and
they use their knowledge of programming languages and software development
principles that meet the needs of users. A good example where software
developers can work include simple websites to complex enterprise software
As of 2020, Kenya had a total of 60,000 software developers according to
Google and IFC. Kenya comes second after Nigeria which has a total of
85,000 software developers
THE GROWING NEED FOR SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS
A few factors are driving this growth including;
1. The
increasing adoption of technology by businesses and individuals in Kenya:
Businesses in Kenya are increasingly using technology to improve their
efficiency also individuals are using technology to stay connected, learn new
things, and entertain themselves
2. The
growth of the Kenyan startup ecosystem: This growth has led to the creation
of new jobs and opportunities for software developers
3. The
government's focus on promoting the development of the tech sector: The
Kenyan government has several initiatives in place to promote the development
of the tech sector including tax breaks for tech start-ups
As a result of the above factors, the demand for software
developers in Kenya is outpacing the supply. It’s the creation of a skills gap in
the tech sector making it difficult for businesses to find the qualified
developers they need
The existing skill gap in Kenya is propelling the earnings of
software developers in the country. As per data from Glassdoor, a software
developer in Kenya typically earns a monthly salary ranging from KES 70,000 to
200,000. Additionally, they receive extra compensation between KES 28,000 and
550,000 per month. Consequently, the total monthly income of a software
developer in Kenya can vary from KES 98,000 to 750,000.
HOW TO MEET THE GROWING NEED OF SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS IN KENYA
1. Investing
in education and training: There’s a pressing need for both the Kenyan government and
private entities to channel investments into education and training
initiatives. These programs are crucial for nurturing the talents of software
developers in the country. This investment should extend to Technical and
Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions and universities, which
play a pivotal role in skill development
2. Promote
diversity in the tech sector: By encouraging women and young girls to
pursue careers in software development by mentoring them through programs,
scholarships, and initiatives
3. Make
it easier for foreign developers to work in Kenya: To foster a more
inclusive and diverse work environment, it’s crucial for the Kenyan government
to streamline visa procedures and provide tax incentives for international
developers. This not only attracts global talent but also stimulates economic
growth. In fact, we’ve seen positive steps in this direction, with the Kenyan
government collaborating with other African nations to eliminate visa requirements. This move has made Kenya a more accessible and attractive
destination for foreign professionals.
The Kenyan government has also partnered with some of the biggest
tech giants in the world i.e. Google, Microsoft, and Amazon Web Services to
name a few which will launch training programs for software developers. Also,
the private sector is investing in tech incubators and accelerators to support
the growth of tech startups, and finally, foreign countries are opening offices
in Kenya to tap into the country's pool of talented software developers
3. IT TECHNICIAN
An IT technician is a person who provides technical support to
computer users, they are also responsible for installing, configuring, and
troubleshooting computer hardware and software.
The burgeoning tech industry in Kenya is driving a surge in demand for IT professionals. As the sector expands, businesses are increasingly dependent on IT experts to set up, manage, and resolve issues with their computer systems and networks.
Furthermore, the Kenyan government’s substantial
investment in tech development is opening up a wealth of job opportunities for
IT technicians. However, a skills shortage in the local tech industry is making
it challenging for companies to find the skilled IT professionals they require.
This has further amplified the demand for IT technicians in Kenya.
Benefits of being an IT Technician in Kenya
There are a few benefits of being an IT technician in Kenya which
include:
1. High
salaries: In the Kenyan job market, IT technicians command respectable
salaries, although they typically earn less than their counterparts in software
development. On average, an IT technician’s base salary ranges from KES 35k to
60k. With additional compensation, their total earnings can reach between KES
60k and 420k. This income bracket is notably higher compared to the average
earnings of other professionals in Kenya, reflecting the value and importance
of IT skills in the current economy
2. Job security:
As the tech sector constantly grows in Kenya businesses and individuals are
always constantly looking for qualified IT technician
3. Opportunities
of advancement: It technicians have opportunities for advancement since
they can move up to more senior positions within their company or they can
start their own business
4. Personal
satisfaction: By deriving a lot of personal satisfaction from their work,
they can help businesses and individuals use technology to improve their
efficiency and productivity.
How to become an IT technician in Kenya
If you’re keen on pursuing a career in IT, there are several
steps you can take to equip yourself. Firstly, it’s essential to secure a
minimum grade of C+ in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education, with at
least a C in both English and Mathematics. Secondly, acquiring a diploma in
ICT, BIS, IT, or a similar qualification from a recognized institution is
crucial. Lastly, gaining practical experience as an IT technician is
invaluable.
There are various ways to accumulate this experience. You could
volunteer at an organization that specializes in IT systems, undertake an
internship, or work part-time at an IT company. Once you’ve gained sufficient
experience, you’ll be well-positioned to start applying for IT roles. Remember,
hands-on experience is often as valuable as formal education in the IT field.
4. DATA SCIENTIST
A data scientist is a professional who uses scientific methods,
processes algorithms, and systems to extract knowledge and insights from data
in various forms structured or unstructured
THE ROLE OF BIG DATA AND THE NEED OF DATA SCIENTIST IN KENYA
Big data, a term coined to denote extensive datasets, is
increasingly being gathered and scrutinized by businesses and organizations.
These datasets originate from diverse sources, including social media, customer
transactions, and sensor data.
In Kenya, big data plays a pivotal role, especially in bolstering the government’s development initiatives and enhancing the capacity of agencies to serve Kenyans. It also aids in gauging the information society.
Moreover, big data can be leveraged to refine business
decision-making processes, foster the development of new products and services,
and tackle complex problems. For instance, businesses often utilize big data to
discern customer trends, which in turn helps them tailor marketing campaigns
and boost operational efficiency.
The field of data science is witnessing a
surge in demand in Kenya, primarily due to its potential to facilitate informed
decision-making. Data scientists, with their proficiency in collecting,
analyzing, and interpreting big data, are becoming increasingly sought after.
In the context of Kenya’s largely agricultural
economy, big data proves instrumental in monitoring crops, predicting weather
patterns, and controlling diseases. This helps farmers optimize their yields
and mitigate losses. Thus, big data is not just a buzzword, but a powerful tool
driving progress across various sectors in Kenya.
WHY IS BIG DATA IMPORTANT IN KENYA?
Big data, a term coined to denote extensive datasets, is
increasingly being gathered and scrutinized by businesses and organizations.
These datasets originate from diverse sources, including social media, customer
transactions, and sensor data.
Big data plays a pivotal role in Kenya,
especially in bolstering the government’s development initiatives and enhancing
the capacity of agencies to serve Kenyans. It also aids in gauging the
information society. Moreover, big data can be leveraged to refine business
decision-making processes, foster the development of new products and services,
and tackle complex problems. For instance, businesses often utilize big data to
discern customer trends, which in turn helps them tailor marketing campaigns and
boost operational efficiency.
The field of data science is witnessing a
surge in demand in Kenya, primarily due to its potential to facilitate informed
decision-making. Data scientists, with their proficiency in collecting,
analyzing, and interpreting big data, are becoming increasingly sought after.
In the context of Kenya’s largely agricultural
economy, big data proves instrumental in monitoring crops, predicting weather
patterns, and controlling diseases. This helps farmers optimize their yields
and mitigate losses.
WHY IS THERE A NEED FOR DATA SCIENTISTS IN KENYA?
Data scientists are in high demand in the dynamic landscape of Kenya data scientists are emerging as pivotal players. As the power of big data becomes more apparent, businesses and organizations are increasingly seeking these professionals. Their role? To collect, scrutinize, and decipher vast amounts of data, offering invaluable insights that streamline decision-making.
The demand for data scientists is set to skyrocket in the coming years. This surge is driven by ongoing investments in big data by businesses and organizations. Factors such as the increasing availability of big data and the decreasing costs of storage and processing are contributing to this upward trajectory. using such data, and the escalating appreciation for the benefits big data can offer.
HOW TO BECOME A DATA SCIENTIST IN KENYA
If you are really interested in becoming a Data scientist in Kenya there are several
qualifications you need to have. The first one should be a holder of Kenya
Certificate of Secondary Education (K.C.S.E) with a minimum aggregate
performance of C+ (PLUS) in addition candidates should have obtained a minimum
of B- (minus) in mathematics
5. CYBER SECURITY SPECIALIST
A cyber security specialist is a professional who has the skills
and knowledge to protect systems networks and data from cyber-attacks. They
work to identify, assess, and mitigate cybersecurity risks
RESPONSIBILITIES OF A CYBER SECURITY SPECIALISTS
1. Develop
and implement cyber security policies and procedures
2. Conduct
security assessments to identify vulnerabilities
3. Implement
security control to mitigate risks
4. Monitor
systems and network for suspicious activities
5. Respond
to cyber attacks
6. Educate
users on cyber security best practices
THE IMPORTANCE OF CYBER SECURITY AND THE NEED FOR SPECIALISTS IN THIS FIELD IN KENYA
As defined earlier cyber security is the practice of protecting
systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access, use, disclosure,
disruption, modification, or destruction. It is important for businesses and
organizations of all sizes, as well as individuals to implement cyber security,
measures to protect themselves from cyber attacks
Cyber-attacks can have a devastating impact on businesses and
organizations. They can lead to financial losses, data breaches,
and damage to reputation and they can also disrupt operations and cause
productivity losses
HERE ARE SOME OF THE KEY REASONS WHY CYBER SECURITY IS IMPORTANT IN KENYA
1. Kenya
is a growing tech: While attracting investment from both local and
foreign companies the growth has made Kenya a more attractive target for
cybercriminals
2. Kenya
is increasingly reliant on technology: Businesses and organizations continue to
be more reliant on technology to operate efficiently and effectively this
reliance has made Kenya more vulnerable to cyber attacks
3. Kenya
has a large and growing internet population: Kenya has an internet
penetration rate of 32.7 percent this large and growing internet population has
made Kenya more vulnerable
BENEFITS OF BEING A CYBER SECURITY SPECIALIST IN KENYA
1. High salaries: In Kenya, there’s a significant demand for cybersecurity professionals. Particularly in Mombasa, the annual average salary for a cybersecurity expert stands at KES 2,242,500. However, this figure can vary, with the lowest average salary being approximately KES 1,035,500 and the highest reaching up to KES 3,577,600. This data underscores the lucrative nature of the cybersecurity field in the region.
2. Job
security: Cybersecurity experts have joined security since the sector is
growing rapidly and businesses are always looking for qualified cybersecurity
specialists
3. Opportunities
for advancements: They have many opportunities for advancement they can
move up to more senior positions within their company alternatively they can
start their own businesses
4. Preventing
financial losses: Cyber-attacks can result in significant financial losses
for businesses hence cyber-attack experts work to prevent such losses by
identifying vulnerabilities, implementing security measures, and responding
effectively to security incidents
5. Government
initiatives: The Kenyan government is proactively fostering a culture of
cybersecurity. This is evident in their enactment of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime
Act, and the establishment of the National Computer and Cybercrime
Coordination Committee, which oversees cybersecurity issues. Additionally, the
Data Protection Act 2019 was passed to safeguard data privacy, further
demonstrating the government’s commitment to cybersecurity.
HOW TO BECOME A CYBERSECURITY SPECIALIST IN KENYA
If you are interested in a career in cyber security there are a
number of things you can do to prepare. Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education
with a minimum of C- (C minus) or level 5 certificate in a related course with
one-year continuous work experience. Second, you should get certified in
specific cyber security skills such as network security or cyber security
architecture. Third you should gain experience working as a cybersecurity
specialist
CONCLUSION
Kenya, Africa’s
‘Silicon Savannah’, is a hotbed of tech innovation. With government support and
a young, educated workforce, we’re seeing a tech job boom. Roles like IT
Managers, Software Developers, and Data Scientists are in high demand, offering
great salaries and career growth. As our economy grows, so does the need for
tech skills. By investing in education, promoting diversity, and attracting
global talent, we’re not just building careers - we’re shaping the future of
Kenya’s tech industry
