Kenya’s efforts to empower grassroots businesses received a major boost as CS Wycliffe Oparanya handed over industrial tools to Matungu-based groups. The initiative, focused on youth, women, and persons with disabilities, seeks to foster self-reliance, spur innovation, and strengthen the role of MSMEs in driving inclusive economic development.
By Faith Anene, Kakamega
The Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs Development, Dr. Wycliffe Oparanya, has called on Kenyans to rally behind small businesses, terming them the cornerstone of national economic transformation.
Speaking during a high-level empowerment forum in Matungu, Kakamega County, the CS presided over the handover of common user machines to 15 registered micro and small enterprise (MSE) groups and associations. The equipment included lathe machines, car wash systems, sewing machines, and welding tools.
Photo/Faith Anene/County Splash
Dr. Oparanya said empowering micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) is key to achieving inclusive growth and job creation. “For Kenya to achieve meaningful economic progress, we must empower our small businesses, equip them with the necessary tools, and provide an enabling environment for their success,” he said.
He lauded the contribution of artisans and self-help groups, especially in rural areas, who he described as the “backbone of the economy.” The CS further urged young people and persons with disabilities to embrace group formation as a means to access government funding, skills training, and technical support.
The event attracted national and county government officials, among them Eng. Edward Karani, the Director for Infrastructure Development and Innovation at the Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA), who represented the agency’s CEO.
Eng. Karani emphasized the need for greater awareness of MSEA programs to drive broader uptake among MSMEs. He cited key national initiatives such as the Kenya Jobs and Economic Transformation (KJET) project and the NYOTA programme, which target enterprise growth through funding and technical support.
Photo/Faith Anene/County Splash
“This is the moment for cooperatives and MSEs to take advantage of existing government projects. The KJET call for applications is ongoing, and it offers a real opportunity for groups to access critical resources for their growth,” said Karani.
Kenya’s MSME sector accounts for over 90 percent of businesses and employs the majority of the workforce, according to the 2022 National Economic Survey. Yet many remain informal and face challenges in accessing financing, equipment, and markets.
MSEA Kakamega Regional Head, Ms. Doreen Nandwa, also addressed participants, encouraging them to visit the MSEA County Office to explore ongoing support programs. She noted that the office is open to all entrepreneurs seeking to formalize their ventures, access capacity building, or tap into new markets.
Dr. Oparanya stressed that proper utilization of the distributed equipment will determine the long-term economic impact on the region. He challenged recipient groups to ensure the investments translate into sustainable income and job creation.
“As government, we are committed to walking this journey with you. But it’s your responsibility to ensure that these machines are used productively,” he said.
Kenya’s MSME sector accounts for over 90 percent of businesses and employs the majority of the workforce, according to the 2022 National Economic Survey. Yet many remain informal and face challenges in accessing financing, equipment, and markets.
The initiative in Matungu is part of a broader national push to equip grassroots entrepreneurs with tools, knowledge, and linkages necessary to thrive in a competitive economy.
