Will AI Replace Your Job? Preparing for the Future of Work in Kenya

Did you know that some jobs will be completely phased out in the next five years? According to the Future of Jobs Report 2025, approximately 92 million jobs will be redundant by 2030.

Over the years, technological advancements have disrupted the labour market, from the Industrial Revolution to the rise of computers. Today, artificial intelligence (AI) is at the center of this transformation. As businesses continue to embrace automation, many traditional jobs are at risk.

The big question is: will your job survive, or is it time to future-proof your career?

Also Read: Top Paying Jobs in Kenya 

Impact of AI on the Kenyan Market

In Kenya, major brands are increasingly embracing AI to optimize their marketing strategies. So far, Generative AI tools like ChatGPT are already making their mark within the creative industry. Safaricom has been at the forefront of AI adoption. 

The telco giant has repeatedly launched AI-driven campaigns, sparking heated discussions. According to Zizwe Awuor, Safaricom’s Director of Brand and Marketing, the AI-generated visual and motion advertisements are designed to showcase how AI can drive creative excellence and enhance marketing effectiveness.

Several companies within this market have already announced mass layoffs in 2025, citing a shift towards AI-driven efficiencies. As reported on CNBC, Zepz (formerly World Remit), a London-based fintech firm, has proposed shutting down its business units in Kenya, laying off 200 workers. Similarly, the ongoing massive layoffs at Meta have affected employees at the Microsoft Africa Development Centre in Kenya.

Also read: How Can I Use AI to Make More Money in 2025?

Jobs at High Risk of Automation

According to the World Economic Forum, 41% of global companies expect to significantly reduce their workforce within the next five years. The report adds that 86% of employers expect AI to transform their businesses. This trend is driving demand for generative AI skills among businesses and individuals.

However, not all jobs face the same level of risk. AI excels at handling repetitive, rule-based tasks that require little to no emotional intelligence. As a result, certain roles are more vulnerable to automation than others.

Based on global trends, the following roles are at risk of being replaced by AI and automation:

• Data Entry and Clerical Roles – Data processing tools have advanced to handle large volumes of information at a higher speed and with more accuracy, outperforming humans.
• Routine-Based Customer Service Jobs – The introduction of AI chatbots has significantly reduced the demand for customer service agents.
• Manufacturing and Factory Line Operations – Advancements in robotics and production systems are replacing manual labor in factories and processing plants.
• Bank Tellers, and Cashiers – AI-driven Fin Tech solutions are phasing out repetitive tasks by introducing self-service systems with minimal human intervention.
• Accountants, Administrative assistants, and Executive Secretaries – Most tasks performed by these professionals are highly repetitive and rule-based, making them highly susceptible to automation through AI-powered accounting software and other digital tools.

Jobs That Will Thrive in the AI Era

Despite its rapid adoption, AI has various limitations due to overdependence on programming and data inputs. It struggles with qualities such as empathy, creativity and emotional intelligence. Therefore, it is unlikely that AI will replace roles that require complex human interaction such as teaching and nursing. 

Similarly, AI struggles with creativity, often generating generic content based on existing patterns. It cannot generate original thought, ideate, or create stories, skills that are crucial to writers, graphic designers and artists.

The widespread adoption of AI is also creating more jobs to offset the massive layoffs. The World Economic Forum estimates that new jobs created will amount to 170 million by 2030, an equivalent of 14% of the current total employment.

Here is a list of jobs that are witnessing growing demand:

Data Science and AI Development

Professionals in the tech industry are in high demand as businesses increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making. Key roles in this sector include:

• Big Data Specialists
• Fintech Engineers
• AI and Machine Learning Experts
• Data Scientists and Analysts
• DevOps Engineers

Green Energy and Sustainability Roles

With rising global temperatures and climate-related challenges, there is an urgent need for green energy solutions. AI-powered technologies such as smart grids, renewable energy management, and climate modeling are fueling demand for professionals within this space:

• Solar and Wind Energy Development
• Sustainable Infrastructure and Environmental Management
• AI-Powered Climate Prediction and Risk Analysis

E-Commerce and Digital Logistics Jobs

The rise of online shopping and AI-driven marketplaces has led to increased demand for professionals who can manage automated inventory systems, digital marketing, and supply chain logistics. 

Healthcare and AI-Powered Medical Roles

Advancements in AI-driven medical technologies are creating new opportunities in healthcare. Professionals in health informatics, AI-powered diagnostics, and digital health solutions are playing a key role in improving patient care and expanding access to medical services.

Also Read: How to be a financially independent woman in Kenya 

Wrapping Up

The economic outlook on AI presents a mix of cautious optimism and persistent uncertainty. Jürgen Schmidhuber, often referred to as the "father of modern AI," emphasizes that human curiosity drives innovation. He highlights the importance of continuous learning, as AI can only optimize what already exists.

AI is no longer a distant future—it is already reshaping industries. The ship has sailed. The question is: Will you weather the storm or remain on the sidelines as it overtakes you?

Upskilling and reskilling are no longer optional but necessary steps to stay relevant in the job market. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning offer valuable courses to help you develop in-demand AI skills.