MSEA Mandera team, led by Director Infrastructure Eng. Edward Karani representing MSEA CEO, participated in an empowerment program for MSEs in Lafey Constituency, Mandera County. The Chief Guest at the event was the Principal Secretary, State Department for MSME Development, Hon. Susan Mang’eni, accompanied by the Member of Parliament for Lafey Constituency, Hon. Mohamed Abdi Abdirahman.
Principal Secretary, State Department for MSME Development, Hon. Susan Mang’eni speaking during the empowerment program at Lafey Constituency, Mandera County
In her remarks, the Principal Secretary reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to supporting small businesses through various agencies, including MSEA, Hustler Fund, Uwezo Fund, Youth Fund, and Huduma Centre. She emphasized the importance of financial inclusion and the formation of associations as key pillars in driving economic growth and enhancing access to opportunities for small enterprises.
MP Lafey Constituency, Hon. Mohamed Abdi Abdirahman addressing the crowd at the event in Lafey Constituency, Mandera County
During the event, 17 associations received their registration certificates, a testament to MSEA’s continued efforts in registering and formalizing MSEs. The PS commended MSEA for its impactful initiatives, including the distribution of car wash machines that will create income-generating opportunities for the youth in Lafey Constituency. Additionally, she announced the government’s plan to establish offices for various agencies, including MSEA, to bring essential services closer to the community.
Guest and Lafey Constituency community members at the event
The PS encouraged the community to leverage the restocking initiative, a vital government program aimed at enhancing the livestock economy in the region. Recognizing livestock as a key economic driver in the area, she assured the community of the government’s support in accessing markets for their livestock products. She also urged the youth to enroll in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions to gain technical skills that would improve their employability and enable them to participate in economic development.
Principal Secretary, State Department for MSME Development, Hon. Susan Mang’eni, MP Lafey Constituency, Hon. Mohamed Abdi Abdirahman and MSEA Director Infrastructure, Eng. Edward Karani handing over a certificate and car wash machine to one of the boda boda association in Lafey Constituency
Speaking at the event, MSEA Director Infrastructure, Eng. Edward Karani, commended the Member of Parliament for his dedication to empowering the community and for partnering with MSEA in the program. He highlighted MSEA’s flagship programs such as KJET and NYOTA, which will empower MSEs by providing access to funding and training. Eng. Karani encouraged the community to take advantage of these programs to grow their businesses and improve their livelihoods. He also emphasized the importance of registering boda boda associations, noting that the issuance of car wash machines demonstrates the tangible benefits of formalized groups.
MSEA Director Infrastructure, Eng. Edward Karani making his remarks at the event accompanied by MSEA Mandera Officer Mohamud Kulow
The event was attended by Members of Parliament from Mandera County, representatives from Uwezo Fund, Huduma Centre, Youth Fund, East African Community, local chiefs, and other stakeholders. The empowerment program marks a significant step towards enhancing the economic resilience of the Lafey community and fostering inclusive growth.
