The Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSME Development, Hon. FCPA Dr. Wycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya, EGH, officially launched the Kenya Public-Private Sector MSMEs Dialogue dubbed MSMEs Connect on 14th March 2025. This initiative marks a new chapter of collaboration between the government and the private sector, acknowledging the private sector’s vital role in driving MSME growth.
Accompanying the Cabinet Secretary were Principal Secretaries Hon. Susan Mang’eni, State Department of MSME Development and Patrick Kiburi Kilemi, State Department for Cooperatives, alongside MSEA Board Chairman James Mureu, MSEA Board Directors, MSEA CEO Henry Rithaa, and other prominent leaders from both the public and private sectors.
During the launch, CS Oparanya visited the MSEA stand, engaging with MSEs who were showcasing a diverse range of products, including edible oils, coffee, leather goods, cotton, and textiles. Hosted by MSEA CEO Henry Rithaa, the CS also held discussions on the reverse engineering process taking place at the Kariobangi Centre of Excellence (COE). This initiative aims to manufacture 300 oil extraction machines to boost edible oil production in the country.
Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Cooperatives and MSME Development, Hon. FCPA Dr. Wycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya, EGH, officially launching the Kenya Public-Private Sector MSMEs Dialogue: MSMEs Connect
Speaking at the event, CS Oparanya reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming the MSME sector, recognizing its critical role in driving economic growth. “This renewed focus stems from the sector’s substantial contribution to our economy,” he stated, emphasizing that MSMEs are key drivers of innovation and enterprise across multiple industries making their growth and competitiveness essential for economic progress.
CS Ministry of Cooperatives and MSME Development, Hon. FCPA Dr. Wycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya making his remarks at the launch
However, he acknowledged the persistent challenges MSMEs face, including high informality, limited access to finance, low productivity, and the increasing impact of climate change. To address these issues, he underscored the importance of synergy among stakeholders to scale up and support the sector’s expansion.
The MSMEs Connect initiative will be rolled out across all counties, providing a platform for dialogue, engagement, and actionable solutions The CS called on all actors to participate actively in fostering tangible change and encouraged MSMEs to leverage these discussions to strengthen their businesses.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, he emphasized the need for policies that create a conducive environment for MSMEs to thrive and succeed. He also encouraged youth entrepreneurship, highlighting the KJET and NYOTA projects, which aim to benefit over one million young people. This multimillion-shilling initiative is set for rollout by June.
The CS Oparanya urged MSMEs to participate in this year’s East African Trade Fair, which will be hosted in Kenya. He noted that the event presents a valuable opportunity for marketing, networking, and business growth, further strengthening MSMEs’ position in both local and international markets.
Principal Secretary for the State Department of MSMEs Development Susan Mang’eni speaking during the launch
Principal Secretary for the State Department of MSMEs Development reaffirmed the government’s dedication to supporting MSMEs and promoting the Buy Kenya, Build Kenya initiative. She lauded the Cabinet Secretary’s leadership in creating a platform for MSMEs to dialogue and connect, highlighting the importance of a renewed focus on the sector to drive economic transformation.
The PS also emphasized the need to decriminalize informal work and foster business coexistence across all trades. She called for stronger collaboration with county governments to create a more enabling business environment. Through MSEA’s formalization strategy, MSMEs are being registered to identify their specific needs and receive tailored interventions.
Efforts are also underway to provide decent working spaces equipped with common-user facilities to enhance productivity across various value chains. The PS also noted the revision of regulatory policy frameworks, such as the Startup Bill, currently in the Senate, which seeks to support early-stage businesses, particularly in technology. Expanding market access remains a priority, with Kenya set to host the East African Trade Fair to boost regional trade and business development.
Through these initiatives, the government remains committed to fostering MSME growth, formalization, and sustainability, ensuring that the sector continues to drive Kenya’s economic transformation.
CS Ministry of Cooperatives and MSME Development, Hon. FCPA Dr. Wycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya, PS State Department of MSME Development Hon. Susan Mang’eni, MSEA Board Chairman James Mureu, MSEA CEO Henry Rithaa interacting with an MSE at the MSEA stand at the Kenya Public-Private Sector MSMEs Dialogue: MSMEs Connect launch
