Busia and Bungoma Counties recently became hubs of opportunity, innovation and renewed hope as the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSMEs Development rolled out a series of vibrant economic empowerment forums aimed at strengthening grassroots enterprises and connecting communities to government support programs. Held in Bumula and Butula constituencies, the forums brought together women, youth and persons living with disabilities, alongside cooperative societies, entrepreneurs and local leaders, in a powerful demonstration of the growing role of MSMEs in transforming livelihoods and driving economic growth.
The forums, presided over by the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSMEs Development, Wycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya, focused on expanding awareness of affordable financing opportunities, enterprise formalization and market access for small businesses. In Bumula Constituency, the CS oversaw the issuance of Uwezo Fund cheques worth Kshs. 6 million to 83 beneficiary groups, while in Butula Constituency, an additional Kshs. 4.04 million was issued to 40 groups. Addressing participants during the engagements, the CS reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to empowering MSMEs through initiatives designed to create jobs, promote financial independence and stimulate inclusive economic growth across the country.
Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSMEs Development, Dr. Wycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya giving his remarks during the events in Butula and Bumula Constituencies.
A major highlight of the forums was the remarkable showcase of locally manufactured and value-added products by MSMEs from across Busia County. Fibertext Green Paper and HN Premier Limited demonstrated how recycled materials can be transformed into innovative products including biodegradable packaging materials, barbed wire, tissue paper rolls and packaging bags.
In Butula, Eco Green Kenya Bamboo attracted attention with its wide range of bamboo-based products such as furniture, baskets, trays, briquettes and biochar, while Lavy Foods showcased the untapped potential of jackfruit value addition through products including flour, beverages, crisps, juice, jam and wine. The exhibitions reflected the growing creativity, resilience and sustainability of local enterprises within the county.
Fibertext Green Paper and HN Premier Limited showcasing their products during the event in Bumula, Bungoma County.
Eco Green Kenya Bamboo and Lavy Foods showcasing their products during the event in Butula, Busia County.
Speaking during the forums, MSEA Registrar Maureen Chogo encouraged groups and associations to formalize their enterprises through registration in order to unlock broader opportunities including access to affordable credit, government procurement opportunities, business development support and local and international market linkages.
She further urged MSMEs to take advantage of available government financing programs such as Uwezo Fund, Kenya Industrial Estates (KIE), Youth Enterprise Fund, Women Enterprise Fund and the Financial Inclusion Fund. Beyond the financial support issued during the events, the forums left behind a strong message of possibility and transformation, inspiring communities to embrace entrepreneurship, innovation and collaboration as key drivers towards sustainable economic empowerment and a thriving MSME sector in Busia County.
MSEA Registrar Maureen Chogo giving her remarks during the events in Bumula and Butula constituencies.
Pictorial highlights during the events.
