Over 1,000 entrepreneurs, government leaders, private sector actors and development partners converged in Turkana County for the 5th Edition of the Kenya Public–Private Sector MSMEs Dialogue (MSMEs Connect). Under the rallying theme “Building Resilience in the MSMEs Ecosystem for Inclusive Growth,” they all united with an agenda of transforming the region into the beating heart of Kenya’s small business movement.
Speaking during the event, the Deputy Governor of Turkana, Dr. John Erus, commended the Ministry of Cooperatives and MSMEs Development for bringing the dialogue to Turkana, noting that the initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to ensuring inclusivity and creating opportunities for MSMEs even in marginalized regions.
Deputy Governor of Turkana, Dr. John Erus, giving his remarks during the forum.
The Cabinet Secretary’s address was delivered by the Turkana County Commissioner, Julius Kavita, on behalf of Wycliffe Oparanya. In the speech, the CS appreciated the County Government of Turkana and all stakeholders for their collaboration in strengthening the MSME ecosystem. He urged entrepreneurs to think beyond short-term gains, embrace innovation, and build sustainable enterprises.
The CS emphasized that MSMEs remain a cornerstone of Kenya’s economy, while acknowledging challenges such as limited access to finance. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment that supports businesses to grow progressively from micro to small, medium, and eventually large enterprises. To enhance financial inclusion, the Government continues to expand support through funds and agencies such as the Hustler Fund, Kenya Industrial Estates (KIE), Uwezo Fund, and the Youth Fund, alongside investing in market infrastructure, with over 400 markets currently under construction across the country to provide better trading spaces for entrepreneurs.
Turkana County Commissioner, Julius Kavita delivering Cabinet Secretary Hon. Wycliffe Oparanya’s Speech.
The CS also highlighted the importance of public–private sector dialogue in unlocking partnerships and opportunities. He noted that Kenya must move up the value chain rather than remain producers of raw materials, as value addition across sectors holds immense potential for job creation and economic transformation. He further emphasized the need to ensure that MSMEs in marginalized communities actively participate in the digital economy, noting that the future growth of MSMEs will depend greatly on aligning policies with emerging economic trends. “Inclusive growth means that no region should be left behind,” the message stated.
During the panel discussions, MSEA Director of Business Development, Marketing and Trade, Dr. Caroline Kaua, highlighted various business development opportunities available within government, including flagship initiatives implemented by MSEA such as Kenya Jobs and Economic Transformation (KJET) and NYOTA.
Dr. Kaua also underscored the importance of access to affordable capital, pointing to financing opportunities available through Kenya Industrial Estates (KIE), the Uwezo Fund, Youth Fund, and the Hustler Fund. She encouraged entrepreneurs who have borrowed from the Hustler Fund to repay their loans in order to increase their credit limits and access the Kes. 150,000 bridge loan facility.
During the panel discussions, MSEA Director of Business Development, Marketing and Trade, Dr. Caroline Kaua, giving her remarks.
Additionally, she emphasized the importance of formalizing businesses, urging MSMEs in Turkana to visit the MSEA Turkana office to register and formalize their enterprises so that they can fully benefit from government programs and opportunities.
Dr. Kaua further highlighted the Authority’s role in linking MSMEs to markets, noting that MSEA facilitates participation in the annual East African Community (EAC) Trade Fairs, which enable entrepreneurs to expand beyond local markets and explore regional opportunities. She added that this year’s trade fair will be hosted in Rwanda, and expressed optimism about strong participation from MSMEs in Turkana County.
Pictorial highlights during the forum.
