The e-commerce platform has also established 350 pick-up points countrywide.

Jumia Kenya has stepped up efforts to expand operations in rural areas, onboarding 25,000 salespersons to serve the company.

The e-commerce platform has also established 350 pick-up points countrywide.

On Monday, Jumia released its e-commerce in rural areas report, crediting collaborations with 45 local logistics partners, as the catalyst that enabled Jumia to streamline its supply chain and serve the rural areas.

Through these partnerships, Jumia said it offered competitive and timely delivery options to these rural areas.

The report reads:"Jumia’s logistics arm facilitates the delivery of goods conveniently and reliably to consumers. It comprises a large network of warehouses, pick-up stations, and hundreds of local third-party logistics service providers, allowing for efficient last-mile delivery and an extensive reach.”

Commenting on the report, Charles Ballard, CEO of Jumia Kenya, said: “We are proud to bring a modern and convenient shopping experience to customers in small Kenyan towns and give them access to millions of products that are not always available locally.

"Jumia’s development in peri-urban and rural areas of Kenya also shows our commitment to driving economic growth and improving lives through the Internet."

Chris Nyaga, head of Logistics at Jumia Kenya, said: “E-commerce enables all consumers to buy products at the same price whether they live in Nairobi, Meru, or Lodwar.

"Delivery costs have also decreased over the years, with the average delivery cost to rural areas now around $2.15 depending on the size of the items. Pick-up stations have also helped reduce prices and minimise the environmental impact.

"Eldoret, Nakuru, Kakamega, Kitale, and Kisumu are the areas with the most promising consumer demand.”