Is the Coast the Future of Kenyan Tech?

Like it or not, remote work has become the norm. This shift has me personally questioning if Nairobi’s status as the “Silicon Savannah” will ring true or will people look to greener… or bluer pastures. Coastal cities like Mombasa and small towns like Kilifi are emerging as new hotspots for digital nomads and Kenyan programmers, offering unique advantages that could potentially dethrone Nairobi from its tech hub pedestal.

Nairobi’s Tech Dominance Challenged

Nairobi, often dubbed “Silicon Savannah,” has been the heart of Kenya’s tech innovation, home to startups, tech companies, and innovation hubs. However, the city’s rapid growth has also led to challenges such as higher living costs, traffic congestion, and air quality. While Nairobi continues to thrive as a tech epicenter, the rise of remote work is prompting a reevaluation of what a tech hub needs to offer.

The recent failing of a number of high-profile startups has also upset the scene, prompting investors and developers alike to look elsewhere.

The Appeal of Mombasa and Kilifi

Mombasa and towns like Kilifi and Malindi are increasingly recognized for their appeal to the tech community, driven by two factors:

• Quality of Life: Both locations boast a lower cost of living compared to Nairobi, coupled with scenic beauty, serene beaches, and a warmer climate. These qualities offer a more relaxed lifestyle, which is attractive to individuals seeking a balance between work and leisure. While many tech bros and gals might not care about the exact price point if they’re getting international salaries, they certainly care about how close the beach is.
• Connectivity and Infrastructure: With improvements in internet connectivity and the availability of co-working spaces, these regions no longer lag behind Nairobi in terms of technological infrastructure. High-speed internet and modern amenities make them viable locations for remote work. The lag is no longer a problem, especially when you consider innovations like Starlink.
• Tech Scene: There are still so many places to go in Mombasa in particular, like Swahilipot Hub, MombasaWorks, Swahili Box, Close the Gap HUB, and Techbridge Invest Africa to cowork and get tech community.

The Digital Nomad Trend

The lifestyle of digital nomads — professionals who choose to work remotely while traveling — has become increasingly popular. Cities like Mombasa and towns like Kilifi, with their mix of cultural richness, natural beauty, and increasingly tech-friendly facilities, are ideal destinations for digital nomads. This trend not only contributes to the local economy but also integrates global perspectives into the local tech ecosystem. This international infusion leaves opportunities for investment and exchange of ideas to enrich the region.

Implications for Nairobi and Kenya’s Tech Scene

The shift towards remote work and the rise of new tech hotspots does not necessarily spell immediate doom for Nairobi’s tech scene. Instead, it signifies a broadening of Kenya’s tech landscape. Nairobi will likely remain a key hub for tech companies and startups, given its established infrastructure and ecosystem for years to come. However, the decentralization of tech talent and innovation can lead to a more diverse and resilient national tech ecosystem.

The emergence of the Kenyan coast as attractive destinations for tech professionals is a testament to the changing dynamics of work and the growing importance of quality of life in choosing where to live and work. Especially as those from abroad are looking to escape the high cost of living in the west, will Kenya welcome them? Doing so could lead to new jobs and collaborations if done right.

Cities like Mombasa and small towns like Kilifi and Malindi are emerging as compelling alternatives, offering a blend of lifestyle, connectivity, and community that is increasingly appealing to today’s Kenyan tech workforce.