Kenyan Logistics Firm Adopts AI to Revolutionize East African Supply Chains
A leading Kenyan logistics company has launched an ambitious artificial intelligence platform designed to transform supply chain operations across East Africa, marking a significant technological leap for the region’s trade infrastructure. Sendy Logistics announced the deployment of its new AI-powered system that utilizes machine learning algorithms to optimize route planning, inventory management, and delivery scheduling across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. The innovative platform represents one of the most comprehensive applications of AI in East Africa’s logistics sector and addresses longstanding inefficiencies that have hampered regional trade and increased consumer costs.
The newly implemented system analyzes vast amounts of data including traffic patterns, weather conditions, border crossing times, and historical delivery performance to create optimized logistics solutions. Through predictive analytics, the platform can forecast demand fluctuations, recommend optimal warehouse stocking levels, and identify potential supply chain disruptions before they occur. We’re moving from reactive problem-solving to predictive optimization. Our AI system doesn’t just track packages—it anticipates challenges and creates solutions that save our clients time and money while reducing their carbon footprint through more efficient routing, explained Sendy CEO Meshack Alloys during the platform’s unveiling in Nairobi.
The technology has already demonstrated significant impact for early adopters, with companies reporting reduced delivery times by up to 30% and decreased fuel consumption by approximately 20%. A major retail chain using the service noted remarkable improvements in their cross-border operations. The AI platform has transformed how we manage our inventory movement between our Nairobi warehouse and Kampala stores. What used to take five days with multiple uncertainties now takes three days with precise tracking and predictable outcomes, said David Kimani, Supply Chain Manager at Uchumi Retailers. The system’s real-time tracking and automated customs documentation have particularly benefited agricultural exporters dealing with perishable goods.
Industry experts believe this technological adoption could set a new standard for logistics across the continent. As East Africa continues to implement the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), such innovations will be crucial in reducing non-tariff barriers and enhancing regional connectivity. Sendy’s AI implementation represents the future of African logistics. As more companies adopt similar technologies, we’ll see substantial reductions in trade costs and improved reliability that will benefit businesses and consumers throughout the region, noted Dr. Amina Mohamed, a trade policy expert at the University of Nairobi. The company plans to expand the AI platform to Ethiopia and Rwanda within the next year, potentially creating one of the most technologically advanced logistics networks in Africa.