June 27, 2025, | Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC)
Kenya joined the rest of the world in commemorating World Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Day 2025 at a high-level conference and expo held at KICC on June 27, 2025. Themed around inclusive growth and enterprise empowerment, the celebration brought together key stakeholders, development partners, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from across the country.
His Excellency President Dr. William Ruto, CS for Cooperatives and MSME Development, Hon. Wycliffe A. Oparanya, EGH, PS State Department of MSME Development Hon. Susan Mangeni and MSEA CEO Henry Rithaa interacting with an MSME at the celebration
MSME exhibiting their products at the World MSME Day celebration at KICC
His Excellency President Dr. William Ruto, while addressing attendees, reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to supporting MSMEs as the backbone of Kenya’s economic transformation. He emphasized that the future of Kenya’s economy lies in unlocking the potential of small businesses through policy reforms, infrastructure development, and financial inclusion. “We are simplifying the path to formalization,” the President stated, highlighting that business registration can now be done easily via mobile phones at a cost of only KES 1,000. This harmonized licensing and registration system is a major step toward eliminating bureaucratic bottlenecks and encouraging more entrepreneurs to operate within the formal economy.
His Excellency President Dr. William Ruto making his remarks during the celebration at KICC
To foster a conducive environment for enterprise growth, the President outlined ongoing infrastructure development initiatives, notably, the Affordable Housing Program (AHP) which is being expanded to include cold storage units, ICT hubs, and modern trading spaces within newly constructed markets. He revealed that two new markets are being constructed in every constituency, with 280 already completed or nearing completion. Further enhancing enterprise productivity, the President announced the development of 13 County Aggregation and Industrial Parks (CAIPs), set to be completed by the end of the year. These parks will provide MSMEs with shared manufacturing facilities and equipment, especially crucial for businesses lacking access to production machinery or capital for operational rent.
His Excellency President Dr. William Ruto intervening during a panel discussion at the World MSME Day celebrations
In terms of policy and regulatory reforms, the Head of State emphasized the adoption of a value chain approach, the creation of MSME clusters, and a revision of legal frameworks to make it easier to do business. He also noted that over 20,000 government services are now available on the e-Citizen platform, creating a one-stop digital shop for entrepreneurs. Additionally, he noted that the government is moving towards making all tenders accessible online, enhancing transparency and inclusivity in public procurement. On financial inclusion, President Ruto lauded the progress of the Hustler Fund, which has so far disbursed KES 71 billion and mobilized KES 5 billion in savings. He acknowledged the significance of these achievements while underscoring the need to expand affordable credit options for MSMEs across the country.
His Excellency President Dr. William Ruto addressing the participants at the celebration
He also spotlighted youth-focused programs such as NYOTA, which provides seed funding and mentorship, and the Kenya Jobs and Economic Transformation (KJET) project, both aimed at creating sustainable employment opportunities and nurturing young entrepreneurs.
Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSME Development, Hon. Wycliffe A. Oparanya, EGH, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing that access to financing remains one of the most pressing challenges facing MSMEs. He acknowledged the direct intervention of President Ruto in revitalizing institutions such as the Kenya Industrial Estates (KIE) to better serve small businesses.
Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSME Development, Hon. Wycliffe A. Oparanya, EGH making his remarks at the World MSME Day celebration
The CS detailed various financial instruments available to MSMEs, including the Hustler Fund, Uwezo Fund, and Youth Fund. He also highlighted a bridging loan facility under the Hustler Fund, designed to help entrepreneurs meet short-term capital needs. These efforts are complemented by the Credit Guarantee Scheme, which helps de-risk lending to MSMEs by assuring financial institutions of partial repayments in case of defaults. Hon. Oparanya underscored that over 15 million Kenyans are engaged in the MSME sector, reaffirming its vital role in national development. He introduced MSME Connect, a new platform enabling entrepreneurs to voice concerns and access opportunities. The platform has already hosted public forums in Nairobi and Embu, with Mombasa lined up for the next engagement.
CEO MSEA Henry Rithaa and CEO Uwezo Fund at the celebration
He urged entrepreneurs—especially those in the informal sector—to embrace a savings culture, utilizing features such as the Hustler Fund’s savings tool to build financial resilience. In conclusion, the CS announced that Kenya will host the upcoming East African Trade Fair, providing MSMEs with valuable opportunities for networking, partnerships, and market expansion. He also revealed that the Ministry is in talks with the State Department for Planning to identify sectors where Common User Facilities can be established, further lowering operational costs and increasing productivity for small enterprises.
Official launch of the Strategic Plan for the State Department for MSMEs
The celebrations culminated in the official launch of the Strategic Plan for the State Department for MSMEs, officiated by the President, Cabinet Secretary, and ecosystem representatives. This strategic framework will guide the government’s MSME development agenda over the coming years.
His Excellency President Dr. William Ruto being received by MSEA Board Chairman James Mureu
This year’s World MSME Day celebration was not just a ceremonial gathering—it was a strong reaffirmation of the government’s intention to place MSMEs at the heart of Kenya’s economic future. Through collaborative efforts and targeted interventions, Kenya is laying the groundwork for a thriving, inclusive, and resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem.
