The Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA), led by its Uasin Gishu office, participated in the Widows Economic Empowerment and Investment Forum held in Turbo, Uasin Gishu County. Organized by the Office of the Advisor to the President on Women’s Rights, Hon. Harriette Chiggai, the event brought together over 4,000 women and key stakeholders committed to fostering economic empowerment.
Hon. Harriette Chiggai, Justice Dora Chepkwony, Uasin Gishu Women Representative Gladys Sholei, Marsabit MP Hon. Naomi Wako, Turbo MP Janet Jepkemboi Sitienei, and Legal Secretary to the President Oliver Kipchumba Karori
Representing MSEA CEO Mr. Henry Rithaa, Director of Infrastructure Development and Innovation, Eng. Karani, expressed gratitude to Hon. Chiggai for her efforts in championing economic inclusion for widows. He reaffirmed MSEA’s dedication to supporting micro and small enterprises through business formalization, access to development services, training, capacity building, and financial resources. He also emphasized MSEA’s focus on key sectors such as dairy farming, construction, and agribusiness.
Through the Kenya Jobs for Economic Transformation (KJET) project, MSEA aims to equip MSMEs with essential tools, training, and resources to enhance productivity. This initiative is expected to benefit at least 45,000 Kenyans, including 6,800 women.
Director of Infrastructure Development and Innovation, Eng. Edward Karani sensitizing the women during the forum.
MSEA is ensuring that Jua Kali associations actively participate in government projects. So far, three associations, Turbo Eldoret North Jua Kali Association, Eldoret Jua Kali Association (North Rift), and Asis Jua Kali Association, have contributed to fabricating doors, window frames, and wooden structures for the Kidiwa Affordable Housing Project. Plans are also underway to onboard ten more associations for the upcoming Kidiwa B project. Eng. Karani encouraged young entrepreneurs to take advantage of the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) project. This initiative provides mentorship, business growth programs, and funding opportunities to support youth-driven MSMEs.
To further empower women entrepreneurs, MSEA equipped 15 women self-help groups in Turbo with common-user machines, including knitting, embroidery, car wash, welding, and sewing machines. These resources will provide women with the skills and tools necessary to start and expand their businesses, promoting financial independence and economic resilience.
Director of Infrastructure Development and Innovation, Eng. Edward Karani, Director Business Development Marketing & Trade Dr. Caroline Kaua, Registrar of MSEs Maureen Chogo and Uasin Gishu Regional Head CPA, Alton Kogo
Eng. Karani emphasized the need for collaboration among government agencies, the private sector, financial institutions, and local leaders to ensure the long-term sustainability of MSMEs. He also urged women to join cooperatives and associations to strengthen their economic opportunities.
“Together, we can build a stronger MSME sector that provides opportunities for all, especially women and youth,” Eng. Karani concluded.
The forum was graced by several high-profile leaders, including Hon. Harriette Chiggai, Justice Dora Chepkwony, Uasin Gishu Women Representative Gladys Shollei, Marsabit MP Hon. Naomi Wako, Turbo MP Janet Jepkemboi Sitienei, and the Legal Secretary to the President, Oliver Kipchumba Karori. Also in attendance were national and county government representatives, local leaders, and various state agencies.
Women groups receiving common user machines and MSE registration ongoing during the forum.
