KENYA: President Ruto Roots for MSME Growth to Drive Kenya’s Industrialisation Agenda

By Moses Punyuah, Nairobi Kenya.

President William Ruto has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as a key pillar of Kenya’s economic transformation.

Speaking during the 25th East African Community (EAC) MSME Trade Fair at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi County, President Ruto said the Government is expanding access to affordable credit through initiatives such as the Hustler Fund, which has disbursed over KSh80 billion to 26.7 million Kenyans since 2022.

“We are deliberately building an economy that works for every Kenyan, where small businesses have access to credit, skills, and markets to grow and create jobs,” said President Ruto.

He added that through the NYOTA Programme, over 110,000 young entrepreneurs are being equipped with training, mentorship, and start-up grants to spur innovation and job creation.

The President also noted that the Government is investing in value addition and agro-processing through County Aggregation and Industrial Parks in all 47 counties, and developing special economic zones in Busia-Nasewa, Naivasha, Eldoret, Kirinyaga, and Dongo Kundu to attract investment and boost industrialisation.

“We recognise that MSMEs drive our economy, create jobs, and build wealth for our people,” he added.

President Ruto welcomed the International Trade Organisation’s decision to set up its regional hub in Nairobi, terming it “a clear affirmation of Kenya’s growing leadership in trade and investment across Africa.”