Kisumu: Kisumu county government has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through a range of targeted interventions aimed at enhancing competitiveness, unlocking growth opportunities, and positioning local businesses for regional and global markets. Deputy Governor Dr. Mathew Owili highlighted the critical role of MSMEs in job creation, innovation, and resilience across multiple sectors, stating that the county's programs are designed to unlock the sector's full potential.
According to Kenya News Agency, during an entrepreneurship clinic organized by the county government in collaboration with the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) and the German Corporation for International Cooperation (GIZ), Dr. Owili announced the establishment of a County Business Incubation and Innovation Centre. This hub will focus on mentorship, market linkage, and skills development. Furthermore, the county government has partnered with financial institutions to provide affordable credit tailored to the needs of startups and small businesses.
Dr. Owili also mentioned investments in market infrastructure, such as the modernization of Kibuye Market and the construction of new trading facilities in Kombewa, Chichwa, Korowe, and Uhuru Business Park. These efforts aim to improve the business environment for small traders. In collaboration with KEBS, the county has launched capacity-building programs to educate MSMEs on product quality, packaging, certification, and export readiness.
During the event, Dr. Owili emphasized the importance of quality as a crucial factor for business competitiveness. He urged MSMEs to view standards and regulations as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. He also highlighted Kisumu's strategic location near Uganda and Tanzania, which offers potential for regional trade expansion.
The workshop featured participation from public and private sector partners, including the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), which offered guidance on tax amnesty and the Electronic Tax Invoice Management System (e-TIMS). KEBS conducted training on product certification, the Kenya Industrial and Manufacturing System (KIMS), and market surveillance practices.
Small-scale traders shared their challenges at the event. Ann Awuor, a bee products entrepreneur, expressed concerns about the high cost of KEBS certification, which limits access to formal markets. Tom Odhiambo, who runs a homemade juice business, highlighted difficulties with digital application processes, while Susan Atieno, a fashion designer, spoke about barriers to accessing large retail chains. KEBS representative Peter Wambua assured that the agency is working with the county government to establish support desks and host additional training sessions for MSMEs countywide.