Kenya has officially set the stage to host the 25th East African Community (EAC) MSME Trade Fair and Exhibition, which will take place from 1st to 10th November 2025. The preparations began with the launch of the National Organizing Committee (NOC), spearheaded by the Ministry of Co-operatives and MSME Development.
The annual trade fair, which rotates among EAC partner states, has grown into one of the region’s most significant platforms for micro, small, and medium enterprises. It offers entrepreneurs the chance to showcase their products, build networks, and expand access to regional and international markets.
Speaking during the launch, Cabinet Secretary for Co-operatives and MSME Development, Hon. Dr. Wycliffe Oparanya, emphasized that micro, small, and medium enterprises are at the heart of Kenya’s economic transformation agenda, one of the five key pillars driving national development. He noted that the trade fair offers Kenya and the region a unique platform to place MSMEs at the center of inclusive growth. Dr. Oparanya outlined four priority areas that will guide efforts to strengthen the sector: improving access to finance to unlock growth, expanding access to markets both locally and regionally, advancing digital transformation through data-driven surveys, and rolling out MSME Connect, a stakeholder-inclusive platform designed to bring together government, private sector, and development actors in building a unified support system for enterprises.
Speaking during the launch, Cabinet Secretary for Co-operatives and MSME Development, Hon. Dr. Wycliffe Oparanya, and Principal Secretary for State Department of MSMEs Hon. Susan Mange’eni.
Principal Secretary for MSME Development, Hon. Susan Mang’eni, reinforced the government’s commitment by noting that the 25th EAC MSME Trade Fair will not be a routine exhibition, she explained that preparations are being guided by the need to open new and lasting opportunities for MSMEs, positioning them not only to showcase their products but to secure real market linkages that can outlive the ten-day event. “We’re not just hosting an event, we’re going to create a market,” she affirmed, stressing that the government’s focus is on deliberately enhancing the competitiveness of enterprises so that they can stand out in regional value chains, access procurement opportunities, and build sustainable businesses.
The Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA), which will play a leading role in coordinating preparations, called for deliberate efforts to prepare enterprises to seize the opportunities the fair presents. MSEA Director General, Mr. Henry Rithaa, described the event as a vehicle to raise the profile and productivity of MSMEs, urging stakeholders to work together in enhancing the competitiveness of enterprises to ensure they can thrive in regional markets. MSEA Board Chairman, Mr. James Mureu, reaffirmed the Board’s support, while also acknowledging the contribution of private sector partners who continue to play a critical role in building trade linkages and fostering regional cooperation.
Micro and Small Enterprises Board Chairman, Mr. James Mureu (right) and MSEA DG Mr. Henry Rithaa, giving their remarks.
The 25th EAC MSME Trade Fair is expected to draw participants from all seven EAC partner states; Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Beyond showcasing products and services, the fair will provide a regional platform for investment opportunities, policy dialogue, and cultural exchange. It will position MSMEs at the heart of East Africa’s integration and economic transformation agenda.
