Vizx Global ISS

WHy Kenya?

Kenya "The Silicon Savanna"

“…And as I’ve told many, when President Biden mentioned the Silicon Savannah and Kenya’s economic growth potential, I did not need convincing….” 
Meg Whittman, US Ambassador to Kenya and Former CEO for EBAY

Ambassador Meg Whittman’s Take on Why Kenya;

Remarks made by the current US Ambassador Meg Whittman and former CEO of EBay during the Kenya Business Roadshow by the US Embassy.A lot of people have often asked me, “Why did you want to be the ambassador to Kenya?”  And as I’ve told many, when President Biden mentioned the Silicon Savannah and Kenya’s economic growth potential, I did not need convincing.
“You now know Why Africa should be on your radar.  But let’s zoom in on Why Kenya should be your target destination.”

Here are some reasons:

Kenya Fact Files

direct flights from New York to Kenya

Flights

Direct Flights from New York (JFK) to Nairobi (JKIA)

network infrastructure in Kenya

Infrastructure

High broadband speed and Reliable internet - 5G and Starlink Satellite

Kenya language proficiency scale

Language

2nd Best English Speaking country in Africa

Kenya has young and youthful population

Workforce

75% of population of youth are college graduates

Timezone

Timezone

Our timezone adapts easily to the US timezone

More reasons why Kenya Stands Out

Skilled Workforce

Kenya boasts a large pool of educated and skilled workers proficient in English, which is crucial for BPO and RPO services. The country has invested in education and training programs tailored to the needs of these industries. Investments in this has paid dividend with Kenya’s Adult literacy levels standing at over 83% of the population. With over 75% of the population having attained at least a High School Education. 

English Proficiency

Kenya shines as Africa’s 2nd-best English-speaking nation and ranks 19th globally, according to the EF English Proficiency Index. With strong language skills, Kenya offers a prime destination for BPO, ensuring effective communication and seamless global business operations. Elevate your outsourcing experience with Kenya’s top-notch English proficiency. 

Cost-effectiveness

Compared to traditional outsourcing destinations like India and the Philippines, Kenya offers competitive labor costs, making it an attractive option for companies looking to reduce expenses without compromising on quality. Compared to BPO Nearshore markets such as Mexico & Canada, choosing to work with us saves your company between 17% – 39% in hourly rates without compromising on quality and standards your business demands.

Data Protection

Kenya leads Africa in data protection integration with the EU, marking a significant milestone for businesses. With accolades from European Deputy Ambassador Ondrej Simek, Kenya’s commitment to safeguarding data paves the way for seamless business operations.

With commendable steps towards securing data and fostering international partnerships, Kenya assures clients of top-notch privacy standards and seamless data exchange with EU member states. According to a recent report by Stevens Institute of Technology, Kenya is ranked 14th globally in Internet privacy and surprisingly, better than United States who follow closely in 15th. 

Infrastructure

Kenya has made significant improvements in its telecommunications and internet infrastructure, with reliable connectivity and access to high-speed internet becoming more widespread. This is crucial for supporting BPO, RPO, and technology operations that rely heavily on digital communication.

We rank among the top 5 African countries Internet Connectivity and Affordability. With the welcomed uptake of 5G internet connections things are only looking better. More notably according to 2022-23 World Bank report Kenya is ranked highly due to 95% Urban Electrification program and endeavored to reach 100% in Last mile rural electrification connectivity. This is a pivotal factor considered in ranking nations based on ease of doing Business where Kenya sits 3rd in the continent and 56th globally. 

Strategic Location

Kenya’s geographical location provides a convenient gateway to the African market, as well as access to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. This makes it an ideal hub for companies looking to expand their operations across multiple regions.

Why look further, when Coca-Cola has its African segment headquarters in Nairobi, Microsoft opened its African office here in 2018, IBM a major research conglomerate has its offices set up here. Google and General Electric company have their offices in Nairobi.  The United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP) has been in Gigiri, Nairobi since 1975, then followed in 1978 by UN-HABITAT as their primary headquarters. Still don’t take our word for it? 

Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Kenya has a thriving tech ecosystem characterized by innovation and entrepreneurship. Nairobi has earned the nickname “Silicon Savannah” due to its growing reputation as a center for tech startups and innovation.

Based on 2024 study by Swiss Global Enterprise, Kenya’s Fintech sector reflects an 81% surge in startups between 2021- 2023, positioning Nairobi as a focal point in global start-up eco-system index. The genesis of Kenya’s fintech ascendency dates to the groundbreaking launch of M-Pesa in 2007. This and among other digital lending platforms to Online payment solutions have been at the forefront of Kenya’s economic growth and burgeoning interest in the Business landscape in Kenya.  

International Travel

Kenya’s strategic location as a gateway to Africa is underscored by its accessibility from major international hubs like New York, with direct flights operating seven times a week, making it convenient for businesses seeking to establish operations on the continent. Only a 14-hour flight stands between your head office and your trusted Business associates.

Vibrant Culture and Hospitality

Kenya boasts a rich scenery, diverse destinations, vibrant tourism, and culture, making it an ideal location for businesses looking for BPO locations. The country’s stunning landscapes, which include iconic safaris and gorgeous coastal beaches, coupled with its rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality, provide a dynamic backdrop for international collaborations that foster creativity and innovation. 

Government Support

The Kenyan government has implemented policies and initiatives to attract foreign investment in the BPO and technology sectors. This includes providing tax incentives, establishing special economic zones, and offering support for infrastructure development. With the existence of Special Economic Zones in the country, which offer reduced corporate taxes, zero-rated VAT and import duty exemptions, this offers a home to companies such as Unilever, International Finance Corporation of the World Bank Group, US International Development Finance Corporation. Just to mention a few. 

"The future of Africa is the young entrepreneurs, like those in the Nairobi tech scene, who are developing solutions for the continent's challenges and opportunities."

Bill Gates, Co-founder of Microsoft

Kenya "The Silicon Savanna"

Kenya’s emergence as the “Silicon Savannah” stems from its conducive environment for tech innovation, fueled by robust internet connectivity, a growing pool of skilled talent, and supportive government policies. Several major American companies have recognized this potential and established offices in Kenya, including IBM, Microsoft, Google, Oracle and Cisco, drawn by the country’s strategic location, burgeoning tech scene, and opportunities for market expansion in Africa. Standard Chartered, one of leading global financial institutions, has been at home here since its setting up in 1911.  

With infrastructure such as Tatu City opening its doors in 2014, its Ultra-modern set up and amenities offer a diverse platform for companies of different sectors in Tech, Manufacturing, Finance & Logistics With infrastructure spanning an Independent Power supply & High-speed fiber, Dedicated access roads for heavy haulers & assorted warehousing options. It offers incentives such as corporate taxes of up to 15% against standard 30%, Zero-rated VAT against standard 16% and many more. Which is a testament to why we are among the best in the business. 

"Today, Kenya is the largest economy in East Africa. High-speed broadband and mobile connectivity are on the rise, unleashing the entrepreneurial spirit of even more Kenyans."

Barack Obama - 44th president of the United States from 2009 to 2017

Job Title:

Why Kenya