The Micro and Small Enterprises Authority, in collaboration with Gichugu Constituency Member of Parliamnet Hon. Gichimu Githinji, conducted a grassroots sensitization and capacity-building forum at Gichugu Technical and Vocational College.
Gichugu Constituency MP Hon. Gichimu Githinji, Deputy County Commissioner Gichugu East Mr. Kamau, MSEA Director of Infrastructure Development and Innovation, Eng. Edward Karani, and Gichugu TVET Principal, Mr. Joseph Kimemia during the forum.
During the session, MSEA Kirinyaga Regional Head, Ms. Elizabeth Gate, engaged the MSEs and youth on the mandate of the Authority emphasizing on MSEA’s critical role in growing the MSMEs sector through its key functions: capacity building, formalization, market and financial linkages, provision of worksites, and support through Constituency Industrial Development Centres (CIDCs). Ms. Gate encouraged participants to visit the MSEA Kirinyaga office to learn more about the opportunities available within the Authority. Speaking during the event MSEA Nyeri regional head Bonface Mbugua underscored the importance of formalizing business groups and associations, and guided participants on the registration process via the e-Citizen platform. He urged the youth to form groups, register with MSEA, and unlock the benefits that come with formalization.
MSEA Kirinyaga Regional Head, Ms. Elizabeth Gate, addressing the youth during the sensitization forum.
Mr. Raphael Koome, NYOTA Program Officer, sensitized the youth about the NYOTA initiative a national youth empowerment program targeting 110,000 youth aged 18 to 29, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) up to age 35. The program aims to increase earnings, create employment opportunities, and promote a culture of saving. Mr. Koome took attendees through the application process, accessible via USSD code *254#.
Mr. Raphael Koome, NYOTA Program Officer, sensitizing the youth during the session.
MSEA Director of Infrastructure Development and Innovation, Eng. Edward Karani, provided insights into the Kenya Jobs and Economic Transformation Project (KJET). A program that is designed to support MSEs through targeted training, co-investment in essential machinery, and access to Business Development Services (BDS) to enhance competitiveness along various value chains. The event was also attended by the Deputy County Commissioner Gichugu East, Kirinyaga County Government representatives, Gichugu TVET Principal, Mr. Joseph Kimemia; and representatives from the Youth Enterprise Development Fund, Women Enterprise Fund, Uwezo Fund, and the State Department for Youth Affairs all of whom offered valuable insights and support to the participants.
MSEA Director of Infrastructure Development and Innovation, Eng. Edward Karani, Deputy County Commissioner Gichugu East, Kirinyaga County Government representatives, Gichugu and representatives from the Youth Enterprise Development Fund, Women Enterprise Fund, Uwezo Fund, and the State Department for Youth Affairs addressing the youth during the sensitization session.
In his closing remarks, Hon. Gichimu Githinji expressed his appreciation to MSEA for its ongoing commitment to grassroots economic empowerment. He lauded the youth and MSEs for turning out in large numbers and urged beneficiaries of the NYOTA program to use their grants wisely to start or grow businesses and not waste the opportunity, as such chances are rare and life-changing.
Gichugu Constituency MP Hon. Gichimu Githinji giving his remarks during the sensitization forum.
The event culminated with the issuance of Common User Machines, including sewing and knitting machines, to registered associations. This initiative aims to boost productivity, promote value addition, and empower local entrepreneurs in Gichugu Constituency.
Moments captured during the issuing of common user machines to the registered women groups.
