Kenya day celebrations at the 24th East African Community Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) Trade Fair were a lively celebration of Kenyan culture, innovation, and national pride. The event was officiated by Hon. Wycliffe Oparanya, EGH, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSMEs Development, who was joined by Hon. Beatrice Askul, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of EAC, ASALs, and Regional Development.
Hon. Wycliffe Oparanya, EGH, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSMEs Development making his remarks during the celebrations.
In his keynote address, CS Oparanya expressed pride in this year’s trade fair theme, “Promotion of Unique Innovations and Skills Development Amongst EAC MSMEs,” which aligns with Kenya’s “Buy Kenya, Build Kenya” initiative. He emphasized that the theme reflects Kenya’s commitment to fostering local production capabilities, crucial for economic growth within the EAC region. “The annual trade fair has proven to be a vital platform for enhancing intra-EAC trade and investment by allowing businesses to connect, share market insights, and explore new opportunities. This year, 483 Kenyan MSMEs have the chance to gain a valuable understanding of emerging market dynamics and form business linkages that will drive trade expansion. This event showcases Kenya’s offerings to the regional market and plays a key role in facilitating cross-border trade, launching new and improved technologies, and promoting digital trade,” noted CS Oparanya.
Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSMEs Development Hon. Wycliffe Oparanya and Principal Secretary Susan Mang’eni interacting with MSEs during the celebrations
Representing the South Sudan government, Hon. Amb. Joseph Majak, Minister of Trade and Industry, applauded Kenya and the EAC partner states for their efforts to empower MSMEs and foster regional integration. He recognized Kenya’s leadership in promoting MSMEs and strengthening linkages across both regional and continental markets.
Hon. Susan Mang’eni, Principal Secretary of the State Department for MSMEs Development, highlighted Kenya’s medium-term agenda (2023-2027), which focuses on building an enabling environment for a productive and diverse MSME sector. She outlined the government’s increased investments in priority value chains to support MSME growth.
MSEA Board Chairman Mr. James Mureu underscored the importance of e-commerce to overcome trade barriers within the EAC region. He encouraged MSMEs to leverage digital platforms to expand beyond physical storefronts and reach a wider online customer base. Echoing this, MSEA CEO Mr. Henry Rithaa shared that through Enterprise Development Centres, MSEA has supported MSMEs in value addition for locally sourced products, showcasing them through the EAC trade fair and digital platforms. The Kenya Day celebrations also featured an impressive showcase of Kenyan culture, products, and brands by Kenyan MSMEs.
Cultural dance and crafts display during Kenya Day
The day’s events concluded with an evening dinner hosted by CS Oparanya to honor the participating Kenyan MSMEs. The dinner was attended by distinguished guests, including South Sudan’s Minister of Trade and Industry Hon. Amb. Joseph Majak, Principal Secretary Ms. Susan Mang’eni, Kenya’s Ambassador to South Sudan, Amb. Jeremy Ndola, MSEA Board Chairman Mr. James Mureu, MSEA Director General Mr. Henry Rithaa, and other dignitaries.
Highlights from the dinner
This gathering was a testament to Kenya’s commitment to fostering collaboration, innovation, and empowerment among regional MSMEs, further strengthening its role as a leader in East African trade.
Highlights from Kenya Day celebrations
