By John Kariuki
The Confederation of Micro and Small Enterprises Organization – East Africa (CMSEO-EA) is deepening its commitment to professional development and education through a new strategic partnership with UNICAF. In a high-level meeting, CMSEO-EA’s Registrar and CEO, Richard Muteti HSC, hosted Winnie Atieno, the Country Manager for UNICAF, to explore collaborative opportunities that will benefit engineers, students, and industry stakeholders across the region.
The discussions focused on several key areas aimed at fostering growth and excellence within the engineering and micro-enterprise sectors. One of the major highlights of the meeting was the upcoming 6th Engineering Partnerships Convention (EPC) 2025, a flagship event dedicated to enhancing collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing within the engineering industry. This convention will bring together key players, including government agencies, private sector leaders, and academia, to address emerging challenges and opportunities in the field.
Another significant aspect of the partnership is the provision of scholarships that will enable stakeholders, including students and professionals, to access quality higher education and specialized training. By offering these educational opportunities, CMSEO-EA and UNICAF aim to bridge skill gaps, empower individuals, and enhance expertise in critical areas of engineering and enterprise development.
Beyond scholarships, the partnership will also introduce a mentorship program, creating a platform where experienced industry leaders can guide and inspire the next generation of engineers and entrepreneurs. This initiative is expected to play a crucial role in shaping future industry leaders by providing them with hands-on knowledge, networking opportunities, and career guidance.
To further recognize and celebrate outstanding contributions to the industry, the partnership will establish Excellence Awards for students, engineers, and organizations. These awards will honor individuals and institutions that have demonstrated exceptional innovation, dedication, and impact in their respective fields. By doing so, CMSEO-EA and UNICAF seek to encourage a culture of excellence and continuous improvement within the industry.
Speaking after the meeting, Richard Muteti reaffirmed CMSEO-EA’s commitment to building meaningful partnerships that drive growth and development in the engineering and micro-enterprise sectors. He emphasized that such collaborations are essential in creating opportunities, fostering economic integration, and equipping professionals with the skills needed to thrive in a competitive global market.
As the region advances toward greater economic and industrial development, the partnership between CMSEO-EA and UNICAF is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of engineering and entrepreneurship. With a strong focus on education, mentorship, and innovation, this collaboration is a testament to the power of partnerships in driving sustainable progress.
