By John Kariuki
The Principal Secretary for the State Department of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), Hon. Susan Auma Mangeni, is spearheading efforts to transform Kenya's MSME sector. Ahead of President William Ruto's visit to commission the NASEWA Industrial Park in Busia, she engaged the Busia Professionals Association to explore ways of strengthening the sector and unlocking the region’s vast economic potential.
Once operational, the industrial park is set to create thousands of jobs in manufacturing, logistics, and processing, directly benefiting the local community. Hon. Mangeni highlighted the importance of mapping the region to identify key value chains such as edible oils, rice farming, fish farming, cotton, and construction, aiming to shift from traditional practices to commercially viable enterprises.
Acknowledging challenges faced by startups, the PS proposed mobile business clinics to mentor entrepreneurs, emphasizing capacity building through government agencies like KIE and MSEA. She also urged citizens to leverage initiatives like the Hustler Fund and Uwezo Fund to access affordable credit and support growth.
To further support innovation, the government has developed a Start-Up Bill to create a conducive environment for innovators and attract investment. Hon. Mangeni reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering MSMEs, recognizing their critical role in Kenya’s economic transformation.