Treasury CS John Mbadi Champions MSMEs at Inua Biashara Exhibition
During the Inua Biashara MSME Exhibition held at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC), Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi emphasized the critical role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in driving Kenya’s economy. He highlighted that MSMEs contribute over 90% of the total labor force, playing a pivotal role in job creation and poverty alleviation.
In his address, Mbadi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for MSMEs, citing ongoing efforts to enhance access to finance and markets. He acknowledged the unique challenges faced by these enterprises, including skills gaps and regulatory barriers, urging for collaborative solutions to create a supportive ecosystem that embraces innovation and technology.
“To achieve the goals of Kenya’s Vision 2030, we must address the issues that hinder the growth of MSMEs,” Mbadi stated, calling for policies that encourage formalization and integration into broader market frameworks. He noted that many MSMEs operate informally, which limits their growth potential.
The exhibition served as a platform to showcase successful MSME models and foster networking among entrepreneurs. Mbadi encouraged participants to seize the opportunity to enhance their businesses and share best practices.
In closing, the Treasury CS reiterated the government’s determination to transform the MSME sector into a cornerstone of economic resilience and sustainable development in Kenya. The event highlighted the vital role of MSMEs in shaping a prosperous future for the nation.
By Dennis Esitika