Mwelekeo TV recently hosted a discussion on how artificial intelligence is reshaping finance, tax management and the future of work, with finance expert Mike Kaburu offering insights drawn from his personal journey and professional experience.
The conversation focused on how technology is no longer a distant concept in finance, but a practical tool already changing how businesses operate and how professionals prepare for the future.
Mike spoke openly about his path from university to the corporate world, showing how his interest in economics, statistics and technology helped shape his career.
While in campus, he explored entrepreneurship through small ventures, including drop shipping laptops, while also dealing with the pressures many young people face, from financial struggles to uncertainty in job hunting.
Those challenges, he said, pushed him to keep learning and adapt.One of the defining moments in his journey came when he wanted to build a digital marketplace but could not afford a developer. Instead of abandoning the idea, he chose to learn coding himself.
That decision, he explained, helped him understand the value of blending different skills. Today, his work in tax technology at KPMG brings together finance, data and software in solving practical business problems.
The discussion showed how finance and tax functions have changed over the years.
Tasks that once depended heavily on spreadsheets and manual checking are increasingly being supported by automation and real-time analytics.
Businesses can now access financial information much faster, helping them make timely decisions and manage risks better.
Tax compliance was another key part of the conversation. Mike pointed to the growing use of digital systems, including Kenya Revenue Authority’s iTax platform and chatbot services, as signs that tax administration is becoming more technology-driven.
For businesses, keeping up with such systems is becoming necessary, not optional. Technology, he noted, can help identify possible compliance gaps early and reduce costly errors.
Artificial intelligence is also expanding its role. From reviewing documents and automating reports to supporting tax planning and account reconciliation, AI is improving efficiency in areas that once took many hours of manual work.
Mike stressed that strong data remains the foundation. Without accurate information, even the best systems can produce weak results.
On concerns that automation may take away jobs, he argued the shift is more about changing roles than eliminating people. Routine tasks may reduce, but demand is growing for professionals who can understand both finance and digital tools.
That creates opportunities, especially for younger professionals willing to build new skills.
The conversation also offered practical lessons for students and young workers. Mike encouraged going beyond academic qualifications by adding skills in data analytics, coding and problem-solving.
He noted that practical experience, even through small projects or side hustles, can be as valuable as classroom learning.
For businesses, adopting technology comes with challenges, from costs to resistance from staff, but the long-term gains can be significant.
Faster reporting, fewer errors and better decision-making are making the case for change stronger.
The discussion painted a clear picture that finance and tax work are evolving. As artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in daily operations, those who combine traditional expertise with technology skills are likely to be better prepared for what lies ahead.
Through Mike Kaburu’s story and analysis, Mwelekeo TV’s discussion highlighted not just disruption, but opportunity in a rapidly changing world.
