As Kenyan businesses accelerate their adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing is becoming an increasingly important part of how organisations manage data, improve efficiency and develop new products and services.
PwC’s 2026 Kenya Cloud Outlook found that 90 per cent of surveyed organisations had increased their cloud usage to support AI and machine learning, while half were already piloting or deploying agentic AI.
However, adopting these technologies requires more than investing in software and digital infrastructure. Businesses also need skilled professionals, reliable technology partners and affordable solutions to manage their digital operations.
Cloud computing is emerging as a key enabler of this transition by allowing organisations to access computing power, storage and software over the internet without necessarily investing in expensive physical infrastructure.
Cloud computing refers to the delivery of computing services, including data storage, servers, databases, networking and software, over the internet rather than relying entirely on physical infrastructure within an organisation’s premises.
Instead of purchasing and maintaining expensive servers, businesses can access computing resources from cloud providers and pay according to their usage or subscription arrangements.
For example, a company can store business records, host its website, manage customer information and run applications using cloud infrastructure without building and maintaining its own data centre.
Cloud computing also allows organisations to increase or reduce their computing capacity depending on demand.
This flexibility is particularly important for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that may not have the financial resources to invest in extensive technology infrastructure.
Artificial intelligence applications require computing power, large volumes of data and specialised software to perform tasks such as analysing information, identifying patterns and generating responses.
Cloud infrastructure provides businesses with access to these resources without necessarily having to purchase expensive hardware.
Through cloud services, organisations can develop, test and deploy AI applications, automate business processes and analyse information to support decision-making.
For instance, financial institutions can use AI-powered systems to identify unusual transactions, retailers can analyse customer purchasing patterns, while manufacturers can use predictive technologies to monitor equipment performance.
Cloud platforms can also support generative AI applications and AI agents capable of performing tasks with varying levels of human supervision.
As more Kenyan organisations explore these technologies, access to reliable cloud infrastructure and technical expertise is becoming increasingly important.
One of the developments supporting cloud adoption in Kenya is the growing involvement of local technology companies that help businesses access and manage digital solutions.
On November 3, 2026, Liquid C2, through its Cloudmania business, announced a strategic partnership with Google Cloud in Kenya.
The partnership will give local resellers, managed service providers (MSPs) and system integrators access to Google Cloud solutions, training, skills development opportunities and new routes to market.
The arrangement is expected to help technology companies incorporate cloud products into their existing service offerings while supporting businesses seeking to adopt digital solutions.
Liquid Intelligent Technologies Kenya CEO Neeraj Pradhan said the partnership would create opportunities for local technology partners to support businesses through cloud adoption.
“Kenyan businesses want to adopt cloud with partners they know and trust. Google Cloud brings new opportunities for our channel ecosystem in Kenya, while strengthening Cloudmania’s ability to support those partners as their customers’ technology needs evolve,” Pradhan said.
Through Cloudmania’s marketplace, technology partners will also be able to access and self-provision solutions, simplifying the process of selecting and delivering cloud services to customers.
One of the attractions of cloud computing is that organisations do not necessarily need to make large upfront investments in physical servers, storage equipment and supporting infrastructure.
Instead, they can access computing resources based on their operational requirements.
This allows businesses to scale their technology usage as they grow, potentially reducing the financial burden associated with maintaining their own infrastructure.
Cloud services also offer different consumption models, allowing organisations to select arrangements that suit their budgets and workloads.
However, cloud computing does not automatically guarantee lower costs. Businesses must monitor usage, manage subscriptions and ensure that the services they purchase deliver value.
For SMEs, working with experienced technology partners can help identify suitable solutions and avoid unnecessary expenditure.
The growing adoption of cloud computing and AI presents opportunities for businesses, technology companies and skilled professionals across Kenya.
As organisations increasingly move their operations to digital platforms, demand for cloud engineers, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts and AI professionals is expected to remain an important part of the technology ecosystem.
Local technology partners can also benefit by developing new services around cloud deployment, cybersecurity, data management and ongoing technical support.
For Kenya, the opportunity extends beyond access to global technology platforms. Building local expertise, strengthening digital infrastructure and enabling businesses to use emerging technologies effectively will be critical to the country’s digital transformation.
Ultimately, the success of AI adoption will depend not only on the technology available but also on whether businesses have the infrastructure, skills and partnerships needed to turn digital investment into practical results.
Rono is a digital journalist with a proven track record in newsroom leadership and content creation. Currently a Digital Writer for People Daily Digital, Emmanuel’s career is rooted in a lifelong passion for storytelling. Let's talk here: or
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