The government has announced plans to roll out a nationwide survey to identify micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and the sectors they operate in, as part of efforts to strengthen policy interventions and create a more enabling business environment.
Speaking during the launch of the National Organising Committee for the 25th East African Community (EAC) MSMEs Exhibition and Trade Fair, MSMEs, Cooperatives, and Development Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya said the findings from the survey will guide targeted measures to help traders commercialize their products, access financing, and expand into regional markets.
“Today, we launched the National Organising Committee for the 25th EAC MSMEs Exhibition & Trade Fair, set to take place in Nairobi, Kenya. This event will spotlight our vibrant MSMEs, deepen regional integration, and unlock cross-border trade opportunities for our people,” Oparanya noted.
The EAC MSMEs Exhibition and Trade Fair, since its inception, has become a vital platform for promoting cross-border trade, innovation, and knowledge exchange among entrepreneurs from all EAC Partner States.
The annual event attracts participants from across the region, enabling businesses to showcase their innovations and tap into the lucrative MSME market of over 300 million people.
This year marks the seventh time Kenya will host the event, which brings together MSMEs from eight Partner States. The exhibition is expected to further strengthen regional integration, open up new market opportunities, and boost entrepreneurship within the bloc.
The 25th edition of the fair will take place in Nairobi, with the government expressing optimism that it will serve as a springboard for Kenyan enterprises to scale and compete regionally.