Odoo is marking its third year of operations in Kenya with a major milestone: the upcoming launch of Version 19 of its all-in-one business software application. Set to be unveiled later this year at the flagship Odoo Experience in Belgium, the new version promises significant updates across core applications with a focus on user experience, automation, and accessibility. For SMEs, this means faster, smarter tools designed to keep them ahead in an increasingly competitive digital marketplace.
The company’s growth in Kenya has gone hand-in-hand with its commitment to building strong local partnerships. Odoo recently established a dedicated partner management department in Nairobi to support independent companies reselling and implementing its solutions. This strategic move underlines Odoo’s vision of expanding its ecosystem while ensuring that Kenyan businesses benefit directly from its global expertise.
Beyond partnerships, Odoo’s expansion in Africa has had a tangible economic impact, including job creation. In 2025 alone, over 30 new positions have been opened, increasing the workforce to more than 140 employees. This not only strengthens the company’s footprint in the region but also supports Kenya’s wider digital transformation agenda through skills development and employment opportunities.
Compliance and trust remain central to Odoo’s operations. Since its official registration with Kenya’s Office of the Data Protection Commissioner in 2022, Odoo has ensured full alignment with the Data Protection Act, giving businesses confidence that their sensitive data is handled securely. This assurance is particularly crucial in an era where digital trust defines long-term success.
Innovation has also been at the heart of Odoo’s local operations. By partnering with DPO Pay, Odoo has enabled businesses to seamlessly accept digital payments without leaving the software environment, removing a significant barrier for SMEs navigating e-commerce. Furthermore, with government-driven initiatives such as e-TIMS gaining momentum, Odoo integrated tools to help businesses generate compliant invoices and POS transactions automatically, reinforcing its position as a reliable business partner.
Odoo continues to invest in community empowerment through initiatives like the free Odoo Academy workshops held weekly in Nairobi. More than 1,000 participants have already benefited from these hands-on sessions, gaining practical skills in applications such as Accounting, HR, Inventory, and E-commerce. Combined with business shows across over 30 African countries, Odoo’s efforts showcase a vision that goes beyond software—it is about building an empowered business community ready to embrace digitization.
