Microsoft to close part of Nairobi engineering hub

Nairobi, Kenya – Microsoft is set to close a portion of its Africa Development Centre (ADC) in the city as it restructures its engineering operations. The technology giant has been directly communicating with Kenyan employees regarding the proposed changes, acknowledging the uncertainty it brings. Microsoft maintains its commitment to Kenya, stating it will continue to have personnel in the country while supporting the nation's digital transformation and innovation efforts.

The ADC, established in 2019, initially functioned as a hub for software development, design, research, and innovation in East Africa. It also housed Microsoft Garage, an incubation center focused on technology innovation. By 2022, the center employed over 450 full-time staff members, specializing in software engineering, machine learning, data science, market research, and infrastructure, among other fields.

The decision to close part of the Nairobi hub aligns with a broader trend of restructuring among multinational corporations operating in Kenya. In December 2024, Procter & Gamble exited the Kenyan market, leading to the loss of over 850 jobs due to factors such as operating costs, currency fluctuations, and declining sales. Additionally, GlaxoSmithKline exited Kenya after approximately 60 years of operation, while De La Rue reduced its Kenyan workforce by 40 percent.