Mombasa’s coastline pulses with new energy, where the salty air meets the buzz of digital ambition. From the historic alleys of Old Town to the lively stalls of Haller Park, merchants are blending tradition with technology, welcoming customers both in person and online.
This coastal city isn’t just known for its rich heritage anymore it’s fast becoming a powerhouse in Kenya’s digital economy, thanks to forward-thinking innovators and an energetic, tech-savvy generation.
E-commerce in Kenya is no longer a sideline, it’s the engine driving growth for businesses big and small. With internet access now reaching 87% of the population and more than 43 million Kenyans online as of mid-2025, entrepreneurs from Nairobi to the Coast are discovering new ways to connect with customers. Of course, challenges remain gaps in infrastructure and digital skills can hold businesses back. But government-backed initiatives and dedicated e-commerce hubs are working hard to close these gaps and ensure everyone rides the wave.
Mobile commerce is at the heart of this shift. Kenyan consumers are glued to their smartphones, and they expect seamless, mobile-first shopping experiences. If your business isn’t optimized for mobile, you’re missing out. Integration with payment platforms and online marketplaces like Jumia and Kilimall has become essential, providing access to ready-made audiences and trusted transaction systems.
Mombasa is no longer just a destination for sun-seekers, it’s a nexus of innovation.
At the centre is Sote Hub, nurturing startups in everything from blue economy ventures to climate-smart agriculture. By supporting over 800 MSMEs and around 300 high-impact startups, Sote Hub is building a future where local businesses can thrive on a global scale.
The Blue Economy Innovation Hub (BEI Hub) at the Technical University of Mombasa is another key player. Using a unique blend of academia, industry, and government, BEI Hub crafts solutions that reflect the real needs of sectors like fisheries, tourism, and logistics helping coastal businesses become smarter and more sustainable.
Events like Pwani Innovation Week, set for October 27–31, 2025, bring together young minds, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders to collaborate and learn. These gatherings are more than networking opportunities they’re springboards for new ideas and bold partnerships that will shape Mombasa’s future.
A strong online presence isn’t just about looking sharp, it’s about building trust. Mombasa’s web designers and developers are creating sites that are sleek, responsive, and mobile-first, ensuring your business stands out in a crowded digital marketplace. Modern design and intuitive navigation give customers the confidence to click “buy,” whether they’re down the street or across the country.
Think mobile-first: Most Kenyans shop on their phones. Make sure your website or online shop is easy to use and looks great on any device.
List on major marketplaces: Platforms like Jumia and Kilimall open doors to thousands of new customers, with minimal extra effort.
Tap into local support: From Sote Hub’s business programs to BEI Hub’s collaborative projects, these networks offer mentorship, resources, and training that can accelerate your journey.
Leverage the coastal advantage: Products inspired by Mombasa’s blue economy like handmade marine crafts or sustainable seafood have a unique appeal, both locally and internationally.
Invest in design: Your website is your storefront. A clean, user-friendly interface can turn visitors into loyal customers.
As your business expands, the ability to deliver quickly and reliably becomes non-negotiable. This is where DHL comes in. With a reputation for speed, security, and reach, DHL enables Mombasa’s entrepreneurs to fulfil orders seamlessly whether within Kenya or worldwide.
Setting up a DHL business account means more than just better rates. You get a logistics partner committed to helping your business scale, with dedicated support and solutions that adapt as you grow. Let DHL handle the shipping, so you can focus on product, customer experience, and brand building. Open a DHL business account today and give your customers the joy of fast, reliable delivery every time.
Mombasa is riding a new digital tide. With Kenya’s e-commerce sector booming, a strong support network of innovation hubs, and a mobile-first culture, local businesses have everything they need to succeed. By embracing digital tools, partnering with trusted marketplaces, leveraging local expertise, and ensuring world-class logistics with DHL, your coastal business isn’t just keeping up, it’s setting the pace.
The next chapter of Mombasa’s business story is digital, borderless, and full of opportunity. Are you ready to lead the way?
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