The Ministry of Cooperatives and MSMEs Development hosted the third edition of the Kenya Public–Private Sector MSMEs Dialogue, dubbed MSMEs Connect, on 9th September 2025 at Tononoka Social Hall in Mombasa.
The MSMEs Connect initiative is a flagship of the ministry that seeks to build a robust development ecosystem that drives sustainable and inclusive socio-economic growth for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Kenya. The platform enhances coordination between the Ministry and private sector stakeholders to address key challenges, promote innovation, and foster long-term business growth for MSMEs.
Speaking during the Mombasa edition, Chief Guest Hon. FCPA Dr. Wycliffe Oparanya, Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs Development, underscored the vital role MSMEs play in Kenya’s economy, noting that nine out of ten businesses are small enterprises. He highlighted MSMEs Connect as a key platform for collaboration among the National Government, County Governments, and private sector partners to address challenges and unlock growth opportunities.
Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs Development Hon. FCPA Dr. Wycliffe Oparanya giving his remarks
Dr. Oparanya reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to priority sectors such as agriculture, health, affordable housing, the digital economy, and small businesses. He also outlined various financing opportunities available through initiatives such as the Hustler Fund, Uwezo Fund, Youth Fund, Women Fund, Kenya Industrial Estates, and the Credit Guarantee Scheme. The CS further encouraged MSMEs to embrace digital transformation, expand market access both locally and internationally, and prepare to showcase their products at the upcoming EAC Trade Fair in Nairobi this November.
Mombasa Governor H.E. Abdullswamad Sherrif Nassir speaking during the events at Tononoka Social Hall
Mombasa Governor H.E. Abdullswamad Sherrif Nassir commended the strong collaboration between the national and county governments, citing progress achieved through initiatives such as the Free Feeding Program and the No Child Left Behind Program. He applauded the creativity and innovation emerging from MSMEs and youth, urging leaders to deepen community engagement to support enterprise growth.
One of the MSMEs speaking during forum
The dialogue also featured an interactive session where MSMEs raised concerns about financing and equipment affordability. In response, the CS assured participants of the government’s continued support, including flexible financing options that do not require collateral.
Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSME Development, Hon. Dr. Wycliffe Oparanya, Governor Mombasa H. E Abdullswamad Sherrif Nassir, MSEA Board Chairman James Mureu, Director BDMT Dr. Caroline Kaua interacting with Deputy Director BDMT Mr. Yatich Kangor and MSMEs displaying at the grounds
MSMEs Connect continues to serve as a bridge between policy and practice, fostering partnerships that drive Kenya’s economic transformation from the grassroots up.
The first edition was launched in Nairobi in March 2024, followed by the second in Embu. It has now grown into a nationwide initiative designed to gather views from MSMEs and harmonize efforts between the private sector and the Ministry in addressing these challenges.
