The 24th EAC MSMEs Trade Fair, held in Juba, South Sudan, was a vibrant showcase of innovation and entrepreneurship across East Africa, with Kenyan exhibitors emerging as a highlight of the event. Through an array of products and services spanning manufacturing, agribusiness, trade, and service sectors, Kenyan MSEs demonstrated exceptional creativity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to regional trade.
High-profile visits and recognition
Several high-profile dignitaries visited the Kenyan MSE stands to interact with exhibitors and learn about the diverse products on display. Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs Development, Hon. Dr. Wycliffe Oparanya, led the engagements following the vibrant Kenya Day celebrations. He toured exhibition stands from all participating countries, making a special stop at the Kenyan booths to commend the innovation and dedication of Kenya’s MSEs. His interactions with entrepreneurs underscored Kenya’s role in setting standards for innovation within the East African market.
CS Wycliffe Oparanya engaging with Kenyan MSEs after Kenya Day Celebrations.
Hon. Jonathan Bii, Governor of Uasin Gishu County, also visited the Kenyan exhibitors, engaging directly with entrepreneurs and commending their contributions to economic growth. The Governor’s presence highlighted the critical role MSEs play, not only within Kenya but also as part of a broader regional economic ecosystem. His visit reinforced Uasin Gishu County’s dedication to supporting and empowering MSEs to expand their reach across East Africa having sponsored several MSEs from the county to exhibit at the trade fair.
Uasin Gishu Governor, Hon. Jonathan Bii engaging with the MSEs.
On Uganda Day, the Chief Guest, Hon. General Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, Uganda’s Minister for Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives also took time to engage with Kenya’s MSEs and explore their innovative products. His interest in Kenyan innovations demonstrated a mutual commitment within the EAC to support cross-border trade and collaboration.
The pinnacle of recognition came during the trade fair’s closing ceremony, where Mr. Festus Muia Vati of Climax Rewinders from Machakos County, was awarded the Best Exhibitor of the 24th EAC MSME Trade Fair. His groundbreaking innovations in the manufacturing sector, especially the windmills for power generation and water pumping, exemplified the high standards of creativity and quality that Kenyan MSEs bring to the regional market. This prestigious award not only celebrated Mr. Vati’s achievements but also highlighted the innovative spirit of Kenyan entrepreneurs, affirming Kenya’s strong presence within the East African business landscape.
Mr. Festus Muia Vati of Climax Rewinders from Machakos County, being awarded the Best Exhibitor of the 24th EAC MSME Trade Fair by Hon. Amb. Joseph Majak, the Minister of Trade and Industry from the Republic of South Sudan as the representative from EAC and Chairman of Confederation of Micro & Small Enterprises Organization (CMSEO)-Kenya Chapter Mr. John Kihiu look on
The 24th EAC MSMEs Trade Fair highlighted the importance of intra-regional trade and the powerful role of MSEs in driving economic growth. Through the participation of Kenyan exhibitors and high-level support from government officials, Kenya not only showcased its entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and commitment to regional collaboration but also its capacity for growth and adaptation in a competitive market.
