Kenya is known for its fast adoption of online transactions, reflecting its innovative and entrepreneurial culture. The volume of digital transactions in Kenya is estimated to reach 8,578 million USD by 2024, with a steady growth rate of 14% per year. This surge in online payments highlights the importance of streamlining payment processes to improve efficiency and drive growth. This article will briefly explore Kenya's online payment landscape and discuss how businesses can use the robust consumer market to enhance their operations and generate profit.
Market Overview
With a population of over 53 million, the country offers attractive business opportunities alongside consistent economic development. It remains one of the top ten fastest-growing economies in Sub-Saharan Africa, with a projected GDP growth rate of 5% in 2023. The country's level of digital connectivity presents an increased potential for businesses to thrive. With 63.94 million mobile connections, online payments in Kenya have become more frequent, and Kenyans are increasingly embracing online payment options and are adopting various digital payment solutions, including mobile money, POS payments, digital remittances, and more.
Internet Penetration
Kenya has a relatively high level of connectivity compared to other countries worldwide. As of early 2023, the country's Internet Penetration Rate stands at 32.7%, indicating that more Kenyans have access to digital mobile devices. In the same period, there were 63.94 million active cellular mobile connections in Kenya, which is equivalent to 117.2% of the total population.
E-commerce Numbers
As one of the rapidly growing economies in Sub-Saharan Africa, the country is ranked as the 56th largest market for e-commerce globally and contributes 9.6% of the global e-commerce revenue. In 2023, Kenya's e-commerce revenue was worth US$3.5 billion, and it is expected to rise to US$4.4 billion by 2027. Like other parts of the world, the dependence of Kenyans on e-commerce businesses has grown significantly due to the COVID-19 pandemic and has remained high ever since.
How do Kenyans pay online?
Kenyans use various methods for online transactions such as debit cards, bank transfers, and alternative payment methods like mobile money, digital wallets, and cryptocurrencies.
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