he Micro and Small Enterprises Authority Kakamega regional team played host to a high-level economic forum that brought together key government and industry stakeholders to deliberate on strategies for fostering sustainable economic growth in the region. The event, graced by the Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs Development, Hon. Dr. Wycliffe A. Oparanya, served as a platform to reinforce the government’s commitment to empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as drivers of economic development. In a major boost to the local enterprises, the event culminated in the official issuance of common-user machines to Masooreki Jua Kali Association. These machines are expected to enhance production efficiency and competitiveness among small-scale manufacturers in the region. Additionally, during the forum several formalized youth and women groups across various constituencies in the county were issued with Uwezo Fund cheques, providing much-needed financial support to bolster their business operations.
In his keynote address, CS Oparanya underscored the significance of forming self-help groups as a critical step towards accessing government-backed initiatives. He particularly urged youth and persons with disabilities to embrace group formations, which would enable them to benefit from funding and technical support provided by various government institutions.
Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Cooperatives and MSMEs Development, Hon. Dr. Wycliffe A. Oparanya giving his remarks.
Representing MSEA CEO, Miss Moureen Chogo emphasized the need for increased sensitization on MSEA programs to ensure wider participation and accessibility among MSMEs. She called for the formalization of more business groups and associations, which would enable structured engagement with the government and unlock greater economic opportunities. Additionally, she highlighted the importance of creativity and innovation in enterprise development, alongside the proper management of Constituency Industrial Development Centres (CIDCs), to optimize their impact on local economic growth. Miss Chogo also took the opportunity to inform attendees about the ongoing NYOTA and KJET programs, which are designed to enhance entrepreneurial skills, facilitate market linkages, and provide technical support to MSMEs. She reiterated MSEA’s unwavering commitment to working collaboratively with other institutions to create an enabling environment for MSME growth and sustainability.
Enhancing infrastructure and resource utilization
Eng. Karani, MSEA’s Head of Infrastructure Development, conducted an assessment of the CIDC facilities in the region, urging for greater grassroots sensitization to enhance the uptake of available workspace and equipment. He stressed the importance of effective utilization of the allocated machines under the leadership of local associations, ensuring that the investments made by the government translate into tangible economic gains. The MSEA Kakamega office reaffirmed its dedication to supporting all MSMEs in the county, recognizing the crucial role that small enterprises play in fostering economic sustainability. The successful execution of the event was a testament to the collaborative efforts between the county government, national agencies, and MSME stakeholders.
Present during the event were local leaders and representatives from government-backed financial and enterprise development agencies, including Uwezo Fund, Kenya Industrial Estates (KIE), the Youth Enterprise Fund, and the Hustler Fund. MSEA Kakamega County was represented by Nandwa Doreen, the County Head, and Mr. Newton Ojiambo, Enterprise Development Officer (EDO). Their presence and engagement underscored MSEA’s hands-on approach in implementing policies that directly impact MSMEs at the grassroots level.
Moments captured during the forum.
As the government continues its commitment to strengthening the MSME sector, CS Oparanya’s remarks at the forum echoed a sentiment he has long championed: “For Kenya to achieve meaningful economic growth, we must empower our small businesses, equip them with the necessary tools, and provide an enabling environment for their success. The backbone of our economy lies in the hands of the entrepreneurs and artisans working tirelessly to build a self-reliant nation.”
With this renewed focus on sustainable economic development, the forum marked yet another step forward in MSEA’s mission to support MSMEs, ensuring that businesses in Kakamega and beyond thrive in an ever-evolving economic landscape.
