E-commerce giant Jumia is set to eliminate another 200 jobs over the next two quarters as it accelerates the adoption of artificial intelligence and automation technologies across its business.
The company said the move is part of a broader strategy aimed at lowering operating costs, improving efficiency and strengthening its financial position.
The announcement was disclosed in Jumia’s first-quarter 2026 results, which showed stronger business performance and a cash position of US$62.6 million.
In its statement, the firm said it was continuing efforts to shrink headcount while expanding process automation and AI deployment across multiple functions.
Jumia operates in several African markets, including Kenya, Uganda, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria and Côte d’Ivoire.
AI Restructuring Continues
The company indicated that cost control remains a central priority, with AI-powered systems increasingly replacing manual processes in areas such as logistics, customer support, finance and technology operations.
Since 2022, Jumia has more than halved its workforce, reducing employee numbers from 4,318 to approximately 1,980 by March 2026.
According to the company, staffing levels have declined by 8% since December 2024 alone, reflecting an ongoing restructuring drive introduced under the current leadership team.
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Jumia said AI tools are now being integrated into cybersecurity monitoring, software development quality control and seller management systems, contributing to improved operational efficiency during the first quarter of 2026.
Kenya has also experienced workforce reductions, with employee numbers falling from 363 in December 2022 to 208 by December 2025.
Nigeria recorded the sharpest cuts across the group, with staff numbers dropping from 1,119 to 361 over the same period.
As of December 2025, Jumia employed 2,058 workers across its markets, with Nigeria accounting for the largest share. South Africa had the smallest workforce at just six employees.
Revenue Growth Improves
Despite the layoffs, Jumia reported stronger marketplace activity in the first quarter of 2026.
Orders for physical goods increased 31% year-on-year, while active customer numbers rose 25%.
The stronger activity pushed quarterly revenue up 39% to US$50.6 million.
The company also reduced its adjusted EBITDA losses by 32%, signalling progress in its path towards profitability.
Technology and content-related costs declined by 8%, supported by workforce reductions and renegotiated supplier agreements.
However, general and administrative expenses increased due to restructuring costs and termination packages linked to market exits, including Algeria.
Sales and advertising expenditure jumped 64% as Jumia ramped up targeted marketing campaigns aimed at attracting new customers and increasing platform activity.
