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"helping Small Business Owners Scale the Steps to Business Success"

"helping Small Business Owners Scale the Steps to Business Success"
Symbol of Hope for Small Businesses in East Africa

Friday, December 14, 2012

APPRECIATION FOR THE SUPPORT TO THE 13TH EAC JUA KALI/ NGUVU KAZI EXPO, 2012.

The just concluded highly successful 13th EAC Regional Jua Kali/Nguvu Kazi Expo’2012 that was graced by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Burundi came to an end on 9th Dec. 2012. The theme was ‘’Promoting Jua Kali/Nguvu Kazi through innovation, competitiveness, investments and Private Public Partnerships’’ The event took off from 2nd to 9th December 2012 at the ‘Musee Vivant de Bujumbura’ in Bujumbura, Burundi. The success of the expo is greatly attributed to each one of the under mentioned for the unwavering and valued support that they provided in ensuring its success. we feel greatly indebted to the following entities and individuals for their direct and indirect support to the Project Management and wish to extend special thanks to:  The Republic of Burundi for hosting the 13th EAC Jua Kali Nguvu Kazi Exhibition.  The East African Community Secretariat.  The East African Community partner states through the respective Ministries responsible for the development of the Jua Kali/Nguvu Kazi sector.  The East African Confederation of Informal Sector Organization (EA-CISO) Leadership for taking lead in their tireless efforts in the mobilization of the artisans (exhibitors) across the East African region  The Founder of AHD for his logistical support and the leadership of CISO Burundi for the ground support.  The Various sponsors that supported the various CISO Country chapters.  The Excellency Ambassadors of the partner states for their constant support and wise counsel during the expo.  All the Jua Kali/ Nguvu Kazi Exhibitors from the EAC Partner States and Corporate Institutions who took their time and resources to participate thereby contributing greatly to the success of the expo.  All others who sacrificed their time and resources to make the expo a success. We look forward to your continuous support as we introduce other programs within the East African Community region aimed at empowering the Micro and Small Entrepreneurs.

KEPSA HOSTS THE PRIME MINISTER FOR LUNCH TO APPRECIATE HIS LEADERSHIP OF THE PRIME MINISTER ROUND TABLE..

NAIROBI, December 11, 2012 – Private sector business leaders in Kenya under KEPSAs umbrella met with the Prime Minister to celebrate and appreciate the success of the dialogue process that began in August 2008. This dialogue took place under the Prime Minister Round Table (PMRT) championed by KEPSA. Speaking during this luncheon, the Prime Minister appreciated that the Round Table format has become a model of stakeholder engagement between the Government and key business leaders. The Prime Minister commended the timely involvement of the private sector in influencing key policy formulation. High level advocacy is one of the key strategies for KEPSA by lobbying for policies that enable a conducive environment for businesses. Hon. Odinga stressed that Kenya’s competitiveness can only be achieved when policies that support the growth of businesses are passed. In addressing one of KEPSAs key strategy which is enhancing trade and investment, he noted that his office is open to dialogue with the private sector to identify areas which need to do better and that he is willing to put more effort into addressing the challenges. He further stated that energy is a key sector in Kenya but the current energy price is too high. This remark addresses one of the advocacy initiatives KEPSA has been involved in through its energy sector board. He assured business leaders that this situation will not go on for a long time because in future, Kenya will rely more and more on cleaner and cheaper alternative to diesel which is set to bring down the cost of doing business. He singled out geothermal, wind and nuclear energy. He also noted that the LAPPSET project will go along way in addressing transport challenges. The transport sector has also been a key focus for the private sector as businesses understand a reliable and organized transport sector is important for economic development. In other remarks, since the private sector under the umbrella of KEPSA is championing peaceful elections evident from the upcoming Speakers Round Table in Mombasa from Dec 17 – 18, the Prime Minister said “I want to assure you and your counterparts abroad watching this country that this election will be free, fair and peaceful.” This comes at a good time when KEPSA is assuring investors that their businesses are safe. For the tourism industry, this is a good indication that Kenya still remains the tourist destination. Eng. Patrick Obath, Chair KEPSA, spoke on behalf of the private sector. He appreciated the achievements that the private sector has had during the 4 years of its engagement with the Prime Minister. “The private sector has given input in policy reforms which have had a great impact in the investment environment.” He further commended the Prime Minister for his leadership in the PMRT throughout the years, listening to the needs of the private sector and ensuring these needs are reflected in policy reforms for an enabling business environment. Eng. Obath assured the Prime Minister that private sector leaders are keen on continuous engagements in future. KEPSAs CEO Ms. Carole Kariuki applauded the Prime minister for the support he has given the private sector. She noted that the Private sector is keen to have the Public Private Dialogue institutionalized. Ms. Kariuki further informed the prime Minister that KEPSA has taken the lead to inform its members, who are the majority of employers in Kenya, to give their employees time off to register as voters. This comes at a time when Kenya is experiencing a low voter turnout prior to the upcoming elections. In attendance were key business and Government leaders, the Danish Ambassador Amb. Andersen Geert and French ambassador Amb. Etienne de Poncins.

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Kenyan Businesses assured ahead of the coming elections

The commissioner of police assures the private sector in Kenya that Businesses are secure ahead of the General Elections: November 12, 2012, NAIROBI: Private sector business leaders under the umbrella of KEPSA together with the Diplomatic Community led by the Danish Embassy met with officials from the different Government arms of internal security spearheaded by Ag. PS Ministry of Internal Security and Provincial Administration at a local hotel. The aim of the meeting was to find ways in which these parties can engage to ensure that businesses and the country is free of violence ahead of the March 2013 General Elections. This comes after the 2007 political violence that paralyzed the country to a near standstill and recent cases of insecurity in parts of the country that has cost the country of business people, property, the public and police officers on duty. The private sector led by KEPSA highlighted key areas and recommendations on security from the private sector businesses:

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

LAUNCH OF THE CMA AWARDS KENYA 2012

CMA AWARDS KENYA 2012 – INAUGURAL AWARDS The CMA (Citi Micro-Entrepreneurship Awards) will be held in Kenya for the first time this year. This will be the inaugural CMA Award Kenya 2012. Citi has partnered with the Association of Micro-Finance Institutions (AMFI) to implement the awards program in Kenya. The Citi Micro-entrepreneurship Awards program has three overarching goals: 1. First, the program seeks to raise awareness about microfinance, particularly among micro-entrepreneurs who can benefit from it and regulators who have influence over the expansion of the sector to spur policymaking that builds more inclusive financial sectors and lays the foundation for a flourishing microfinance industry. 2. Second, the program seeks to build awareness of the important role micro-entrepreneurs play in their local economies by highlighting to the world their contributions and talents. 3. Third, the program seeks to catalyze innovations among microfinance institutions that will lead to the increased supply of demand-driven products and enhanced client capability. CMA AWARDS KENYA 2012 – ENTRY ELIGIBILITY Microfinance institutions (MFIs) in Kenya are broadly encouraged to nominate their clients who have exhibited excellence in areas such as loan repayment, business growth, employment growth, and impact on the community for their local Citi Micro-Entrepreneurship Awards program. All nominees must be submitted through a microfinance institution. Micro entrepreneurs may not nominate themselves directly to the awards team in their country. CMA AWARDS KENYA 2012 – MEASUREMENT OF SUCCESS A series of indicators have been established over the past few years to gauge the success of the micro entrepreneurship awards program. A key indicator is the commitment of MFIs (Micro-Finance Institutions), gauged by the number of MFIs that submit applications on behalf of micro entrepreneurs; the number of micro entrepreneurs who are nominated for the awards; encouraging leaders and opinion shapers in the country to support the awards.

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Official opening of Maasai Market at City Mall Nyali in Mombasa by the Director of Trade -Kenya

The Maasai Market located at City Mall in Nyali, Mombasa was officially opened today (24th/Oct./2012) by the Director of Trade Mrs. Joyce A. Ogundo. The occasion was marked by entertainments by a Maasai dancing troop and was witnessed by a multitude of Maasai market traders and other invited guests. The proprietor of City mall, Mrs. Sheila Doshi and the CEO of youth Fund, Mr. Juma mwatata were among the dignitaries who graced the occasion while Mr. Richard Muteti, CEO MSE Sector, was the master of ceremony. The market provides an opportunity to Micro Entrepreneurs to sale and showcases their products and services to the various clienteles who visit the Mall including the tourists. The market provides an opportunity for more than 100 small traders to participate every Wednesday and Thursday. The Minister for Trade Hon. Moses Wetangula who was represented by the Director of Trade hailed the initiative and called upon other Mall owners to initiate the same.

Thursday, October 11, 2012

EABC and ASK Holds the ''EAC Day'' on 5TH October 2012

The East African Business Council (EABC) and the Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) in collaboration with the East African Community (EAC) holds the ‘’East African Community Day’’ The EABC and the ASK held the ‘’EAC Day’’ during the just concluded Nairobi International Trade Fair held between 01st and 07th October, 2012. 05th October was designated “EAC Day’’ and set aside to celebrate the EAC Integration and to showcase businesses that are in the forefront of taking advantage of the EAC Integration process. The celebration which included exhibitions, a luncheon and an evening cocktail drew participants from across the private sector businesses across the EAC and beyond. The days’ broad aim was to recognize the efforts of various companies in Kenya that consciously and consistently continue to pursue the East African objectives. The inaugural EAC day for this year was set to be held alongside the Nairobi International Trade Fair on 5th October, 2012 and formed the climax of the Nairobi International Trade Fair which took place from 01st to 07th October, 2012. The event brought together hundreds of exhibitors from over twenty different countries, mainly from Africa, Europe, Asia and the East African region. Objectives of the event were: 1. To showcase those businesses that have a regional outlook as well as those that are looking to expand across the region. 2. To appreciate the private sector participation in EAC integration and to embrace the East African Spirit. 3. To expose the private sector members from the EAC region to business opportunities in Kenya. 4. To expose the private sector members to the international opportunities provided by international trading partners like China, India and others represented in the trade fair; and 5. To expose the EAC private sector to networking opportunities and knowledge sharing experiences with international businesses.

Thursday, September 27, 2012

East African Business Council gets a new Executive Director

Andrew Luzze Kaggwa is the new EABC Executive Director During the 51st Executive Committee Meeting held in Arusha, the EABC Board of Directors bid farewell to Agatha Nderitu the former Executive Director of EABC and introduced the new Executive Director Mr. Andrew Luzze Kaggwa. Agatha handed over the leadership at the Council after serving for four and half years as a trail of praises flocked in for her excellent, exemplary, dedicated and inspiring leadership from the EABC board, staff, the business community, EABC partners and the EAC secretariat Andrew Luzze brings to EABC a wealth of technical and leadership experience acquired during his service as Policy Analyst at EABC working on EAC integration issues and the Tripartite process, as Policy Research and Advocacy Officer at Uganda Manufacturers Association and many other previous engagements he has been involved in. Andrew Luzze holds a Master’s Degree in Economic Policy and Planning and a Bachelor of Arts Degree (Hons) in Economics all from Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda. In his acceptance speech, the incoming Executive Director outlined the key objectives that he and his team would be taking forward in line with the EABC five year strategic plan. Key amongst these will be continuing to strengthen the capacity of the secretariat, ensuring that EABC remains the driver of policy at regional level and within the tripartite process, working towards increasing EABC visibility and increasing value added services to members. He reiterated the need to wided EABC membership base to support the small and medium enterprises in order to make the voice of the private sector even in EAC even stronger. He looked forward to working closely with all EABC stakeholders including the EAC Partner States, EAC Secretariat, EAC Organs and Institutions, and relevant Ministries, departments, Civil Society Organizations, non-governmental organizations, educational institutions and organizations representing the youths in the region among others.

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

BURUNDI TO HOST THE 13TH JUA KALI / NGUVU KAZI EXHIBITION

The EAC Jua Kali/Nguvu Kazi Exhibition is an annual regional event organized by the Partner States of the East African Community (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi) in collaboration with the apex bodies of the EAC regional MSE sector organizations This year's Exhibition is scheduled to be held from 2nd to 9th December 2012 at the Musee Vivant de Bujumbura in Bujumbura, Burundi. Over the years, the exhibition has become an important avenue for promotion of products, transfer of technology and enhancement of the social-economic integration of the people of East Africa. The theme for the 13th EAC Jua Kali/Nguvu Kazi Exhibition is; ‘’Promoting Jua Kali/Nguvu Kazi through innovation, competitiveness, investments and Private Public Partnerships’’ The number of exhibitors is expected to be seven hundred (700) distributed as follows; Burundi - 200 Kenya - 185 Tanzania - 185 Uganda - 70 Rwanda - 60 The MSE Exhibitors will be identified by the Country Umbrella MSE Associations in collaboration with the Country Organizing Committees Chaired by the Respective Ministry Responsible for Small Business Development in the respective EAC Partner States.

Sunday, August 5, 2012

Maasai Market opens at City Mall Nakumat Nyali in Mombasa.

The management of the City Mall Nakumat Nyali in Mombasa in collaboration with the leadership of the MSE Sector has agreed to promote women entrepreneurs by establishing a Maasai market at City Mall Nakumat Nyali in Mombasa. The market will provide an opportunity to the MSEs to sale and showcase their products and services to the various clienteles who visit the Mall including the tourists. The market provides an opportunity for 100 small traders to participate every Wednesday and Thursday we take this opportunity to thank the management of the City Mall Nyali For according this Economic opportunity to our Small Business Owners majority of whom are women.

Tuesday, July 10, 2012

South Africa Government Delegation Visits the MSE Sector in Kenya.

Officials from the Department of Trade and Industry from South Africa are in the country to learn on how Kenya is handling the informal economic sector with special emphasis on the Micro and Small Industries (Jua Kali Sector). South Africa has identified Kenya as one of the strategic countries to learn from due to the fact that it is confronted by almost similar economic challenges as south Africa. The delegation headed by Mr. Stephen Umlaw (Dir. EDU) visited the Ministry of Trade in Kenya on the 9th July 2012 and met several officials including the Export Promotion Council. They also visited the metal fabrication sub- sector of the Jua Kali sector and are scheduled to visit other MSE Clusters in Nairobi including the Wood Work and Carpentry along Shauri Moyo and Ngong Road. The delegation will meet officials from the ministries of Industrialization and Labour in the course of the week. The South African delegation’s visit is coordinated by Mr. Sisanda Mtwizi, Councilor (Economic) from the South Africa High Commission and Mr. Richard Muteti from the MSE Sector in Kenya.

Saturday, July 7, 2012

RWANDA INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIR 2012

the Private Sector Federation-Rwanda in conjunction with the Ministry of Trade and Industry of Rwanda is organizing for the 15th time the Annual Rwanda International Trade Fair 2012 due to take place in Kigali, Rwanda from 25th July to 08th August 2012. The fair will attract over 500 exhibitors from various countries especially from EAC region , providing a unique sales opportunity and networking forum for the business community/Institutions that will be participating at this international event. For space booking and registration kindly contact :- Ephrem KARANGWA : Head Trade Fairs & Investments: Private Sector Federation: Cell +250 788307330: ephremk@psf.org.rw

Saturday, June 30, 2012

The President Visits Export Sector MSEs at the KICC

The MSE Sector hosted the President of Kenya H.E Hon Mwai Kibaki, the Ministers of Trade, Finance and other Key Stakeholders at an MSE Stand during the National Exporters Forum yesterday on the 29th June 2012 at the KICC The President said that the Government will establish the Export Development Fund and start an Endowment Fund to support EPCs activities. He called for the speedy establishment of the SME Parks and appreciated the good work of the SME Exporters in Jobs and wealth creation in Kenya. The president was taken round the MSE Hand Made Products stand by Mr. Richard Muteti and was later presented with the SME Handbook which was produced to empower the small business owners in Kenya with timely and relevant information relevant to their growth. Among the MSE Exhibitors was Madam Zohra Baraka who exports various hand made products to various countries in Europe. She has received an order of 1 million shillings to supply bangles during the London Marathon. Regional MSE representatives from across the country joined the More than 400 Exporters during the event while the Vise Chairman of KEPSA Mr. Vimal Shah gave a brief remark on behalf of the Private Sector in Kenya.

Sunday, June 17, 2012

UNDP and the RBA take valuable MSE programmes to the Western Region of Kenya.

The UNDP conducts leadership and governance Training for MSE Sector leaders based at the Western region of Kenya where more than 65 Associations were represented by more than 250 participants at the Golf hotel. RBA concludes a hearing loss clinic in western region where more than 1500 artisans are attended to. Among the guests who spoke during the event were: C.E.O of RBA Mr. E. Odundo , K.I E Regional Manager Mr Bett , the MSE Western Region Sector Chairman, Mr. Charles Omutanyi , the Kakamega County Jua Kali Associations Chairman ,Mr. Richard Kondo and the Sector CEO Mr. Richard Muteti. The C.E.O of RBA Mr. Odundo said that the artisans are subjected to a lot of noise and other activities that affect their hearing and was concerned that many artisans are getting out of the Jua kali sector because of hearing problems and that the trend would affect the growth of the industry . He promised to take the hearing conservation programme to the rest of the country. We recognize the efforts of the following MSE leaders from the Western Region who made the two programmes a major success: led by the Chairman Mr. Charles Omutanyi, Mr. Richard Kondo, the Organizing Secretary Mr. Caleb Isindu. The secretary Ms. Pauline Avukusi, Mrs. Elizabeth , Mr. Eliud Wawire and the Executive Officer Mr. Caleb Isindu who is also the Youth Director, KNCCI Kakamega County

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

operation Ear Drop Hearing Conservation Clinic Goes to Kakamega County Jua Kali MSE Associations

Retirement Benefits Authority (RBA) takes operation Ear Drop Hearing Conservation Clinic to Kakamega County Jua Kali MSE Associations from 11th to 15th June 2012. RBA has identified a hearing conservation programme as an initiative that will accord retirees in the Jua Kali Sector a reasonable and sustainable lifestyle after retirement. Following the successful piloting of the RBA/OED Hearing Conservation Programme that targeted jua kali artisans in Kamukunji Jua Kali association in Nairobi (may 2010),Kibuye jua kali association in kisumu(march 2010) and Shimanzi Jua Kali Association in Mombasa (may 2011), it is the time for a fourth pilot clinic in Kakamega Jua Kali Associations in Kakamega County. In collaboration with Operation Ear Drop (Kenya) the Authority will host a hearing conservation clinic for members of the Jua Kali associations in Kakamega County from 11th to 15 June 2012. He programme is expected to achieve the following objectives: • To create awareness among the Jua Kali Artisans on the hazards of excessive noise exposure • To educate the workers on basic ear hygiene • To conduct hearing assessments on all workers exposed to hazardous noise • To provide hearing protective devices i.e earplugs/earmuffs to the workers • To educate the artisans on the need and means of saving for retirement. We expect the programme to roll out to the rest of the Jua Kali Artisans across the country and wish to thank the Leadership of the Retirement Benefits Authority (RBA) for coming up with this very noble idea. We thank the Chairman of the Kakamega County Jua Kali Associations Mr. Charles Omutanyi Makokha and his team for providing the identification and logistical support for the programme. Kenya National Federation of Jua Kali Associations (KNFJKA)

Tuesday, May 29, 2012

The "SME HANDBOOK GOES ONLINE"

The SME Handbook is the first ever comprehensive Handbook in Kenya with Information, services and products targeting to empower small business owners. You can now access the book online. The Handbook was launched on 14th September, 2011 at the Laico Regency by then Minister for Trade, Hon. Chirau Ali Mwakwere. Due to the overwhelming demands for copies, it is now available online. To buy, click on the link below: http://www.ebookstore.co.ke/product/the-sme-handbook/ The Information in the handbook has been packaged into four main categories as follows: 1. Information on the Small and Medium Enterprise Sector by experts and stakeholders This section has articles written by people who work or teach about the sector and understand it on its dynamics and what drives it. 2. Information on business skills This section has quick-read articles on the ABCs of running a business e.g writing a business plan, registering a business, investing your money, qualifying for a business loan, protecting your innovations and inventions, finding a market for your products e.t.c 3. Information on Government Services Available to small businesses in Kenya, Public agencies and other statutory bodies) including trade attaches in various missions abroad, and local contacts of district offices for various Ministries i.e. Ministry of Trade, Ministry of Industrialization, Ministry of Labour, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Ministry of Fisheries, and Ministry of Planning and National Development 4. Information on Business Member Organizations (BMO’S) that support the growth and development of small businesses in Kenya and donor and development partners targeting small business owners. The Handbook has profiled BMOs from various parts of the country that support small businesses. The Handbook also has a catalogue section where you can get contact details of all the banks, micro-finance institutions, insurance companies and agencies, Non-Governmental Organizations dealing with small business owners. http://www.ebookstore.co.ke/product/the-sme-handbook/ Kind Regards Lydiah Njoroge Programmes Director Small and Medium Enterprise Support, East Africa http://www.ebookstore.co.ke/product/the-sme-handbook/

Friday, May 18, 2012

“MSE INNOVATORS AND TECHNOLOGY PROVIDERS EXHIBITION,”

INVITATION TO THE MICRO AND SMALL ENTERPRISE TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATIONS EXHIBITION IN KISUMU ON 30TH MAY, 2012. The Ministry of Labour is planning a Micro and Small Enterprise (MSE) Innovations and Technology Exhibition to be held at Jomo Kenyatta Grounds, in Kisumu from 28th May to 2nd June, 2012. This is a follow up to the successful 1st Expo held in Nakuru from 25th to 29th May, 2011 which was financed through collaboration with key stakeholders. this exhibition is intended to bring together MSE innovators, Technology Providers, Research and Development Institutions, State Corporations, line Government Ministries and the general public in one forum for five days; so as to identify the MSE sector’s potential and to establish a good working relationship for their realization of this nation’s “VISION 2030” this will also provide an opportunity for institutions, organizations and firms to market themselves to the public and the MSE sector, especially concerning their products and services accordingly.

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

National Science, Technology and Innovation Week- Nairobi, Kenya

The first National Science, Technology and Innovation Week, 7th to 11th May 2012 at KICC in Nairobi. The National Council for Science and Technology is holding the first ever national Science, technology and innovation week at the Kenyatta international conference center .the theme is “innovation system and knowledge-based economy for national development” The main objective of this important event is to improve the understanding of the interaction between innovation systems and economic development. In particular emphasis will be to review the current status of ST&I in the country and map out the prerequisite for transition to a knowledge-based economy. To achieve this, players in research, technology and innovation sector will have an opportunity to make presentation and showcase their innovations during the event. Participants will include researchers, scholars, innovators, civil society, entrepreneurs, and policy makers. Among the presenters today on the 9th, May 2012 was Mr. Richard N. Muteti, CEO, MSE Federation who presented a paper titled “Entrepreneurship: from laboratory to market”

Thursday, May 3, 2012

VISION 2030 Delivery Secretariat turns attention to the Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) Sector in Kenya

Mr. Mugo Kibati’, Director General, Kenya Vision 2030 Delivery Secretariat lead a High powered Secretariat delegation to one of the most active Micro and Small Industrial Cluster known as the Kamukunji Jua Kali Association in Nairobi on 2nd May 2012. Kamukunji Jua Kali Association is one of the 800 Primary Jua Kali Associations in Kenya representing the Metal Fabricators Sub-Sector and is located along landies road on a five (5) acre plot with a membership of more than five thousand (5000) artisans engaged in the production of diverse range of Metal products i.e., wheelbarrows, nails, institutional stoves, shovels etc The manufacturing actors in the MSE Sector are known as the Jua kali artisans operating in around 18 subsectors covering: Woodworkers/carpentry, Wood crafts, Metal and Metal works, Soapstone crafts, Ceramics, Plastic and Plastic Products, Leather Production, Textile products(with several subsections i.e. screen printing etc),Clay/Poetry crafts, Beekeeping, Mechanical Engineering ,food processing, Electrical/ electronic etc. Discussions during the visit focused on technology transfer, innovation, standardization and patenting of MSE products to international benchmarks. The above will contribute to value addition in agriculture, improvement on productivity and promotion of the micro and small industries as the future large industries in Kenya. Issues of the envisioned MSE industrial parks were also discussed where the MSE leaders present suggested that minimum standards should be development for the existing MSI clusters aimed at declaring them micro and small industrial parks According to the vision 2030 popular version, chapter four (4) talks about “the economic vision and strategy: adding value to our products and services”. Among the six key sectors mentioned in the said chapter i.e. 4.3 is “a better and more inclusive wholesale and retail trade sector”. This involves strengthening informal trade through investment in infrastructure, training and linkage to wider local and global markets Item 4.4 of the same chapter talks about manufacturing for the region market and the flagship projects for manufacturing being: development of a strategy for the establishment of at least 2 special economic clusters and the development and creation of at least 5 small and medium enterprise SME industrial parks. This was the beginning of a national wide engagement with the MSE sector and the next focus will be towards a better and more inclusive wholesale and retail trade sector. Present during the above ceremony were: Dr. Omar Mohamed, the Director of the Economic pillar at Vision 2030, Eng. Maliti and Mr. Kariuki among others, Mr. Muikamba, Chairman, Kamukunji Jua Kali Association, Mr. R. Muthama, Chairman, Nairobi Handcraft Association, Mr. G. Wairegi, Chair, Shauri Moyo Furniture Jua Kali Association, Mr. Dawa , Secretary general Kamukunji Jua Kali Association, Miss Lydia Njoroge, Program Director, SMES, East Africa Mr. Richard Muteti, CEO, MSE Federation, etc On behalf of the MSE Sector, we thank the Director General and his team most sincerely for taking time off to visit the Micro entrepreneurs based in Kamukunji Jua Kali Association

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

Small Traders participate in today’s Labour Day celebrations (1st May 2012) in Kenya

The Jua Kali Sector Artisans, Small Traders and the Informal Sector Players numbering approximately 8.6 Million workers in Kenya join the rest of the world in marking Labour Day Today on 1st May 2012. Representatives of the MSE Sector participated in today’s celebration by showcasing their products in the march past parade. The sector Employs more than 85% of all total new jobs in Kenya per year.

Saturday, April 28, 2012

“Towards Parliamentary Action for Integration of Children and Youth in East African Societies”

The Association of European Parliamentarians with Africa (AWEPA) and the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) hosted the regional MDG Seminar “Towards Parliamentary Action for Integration of Children and Youth in East African Societies” on 27th to 28th April 2012 at the Intercontinental Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya as part of the SIDA-funded MDG Programme. The seminar facilitated an open discussion about the current state of youth related-policies in the region as far as education and employment are concerned One of the major challenges in East Africa today is certainly the role of the youth in fast-changing societies. While forming a majority of the population and increasingly so, the youth are usually feeling marginalized from the decision-making process. They are often neither given the opportunity to directly participate in it nor are they even consulted on matters relating to their everyday life. This constitutes a significance contradiction in terms of representation that EALA intended to address through this Regional MDG Seminar and subsequent decisions and actions The youth are not only passive but also active agents of their current condition, which they could have firmer grip on should an improved social environment offering youth more education and Job opportunities. EALA members can therefore significantly contribute to the integration or reintegration of youth into society ,eventually enabling them to lay a sound basis for their adult life. Against this background, the seminar focused on the contribution of EALA to these two critical challenges for East Africa, Education and Employment, while discussing the establishment of a structured framework for youth consultation and participation. The Seminar was officially opened by the EALA Speaker Hon. A. Abdi after brief remarks from Mr. Zwelethu Lukhanyiso Madasa, Clerk of the Pan-African Parliament-, Hon. Sere Saran Sereme, Deputy Speaker, ECOWAS-, Hon. Holger Gustafsson, Sweden, Political Coordinator and AWEPA Member while Participants included Members of the Pan-African Parliament, ECOWAS, SADC Parliamentary Forum, European MPs, Speakers from UNICEF, ILO and Mr. Richard N. Muteti , Director of the Youth Enterprise Development Fund and Chief Executive of the MSE Sector Federation in Kenya, who gave a presentation on the “Perspectives on Youth Empowerment from the EAC Region and best Practices from Regional Parliamentary Bodies’’

Friday, March 23, 2012

LAUNCH OF THE SMEs PARTNERSHIP CARD FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS

Small and Medium Enterprise Support, East Africa (SMES, East Africa), the producers of the SME Handbook (the first ever catalogue of information, products and services for small business owners in Kenya), has now introduced a Partnership Card.

The SMEs Partnership Card will ensure that its’ holders enjoy subsidized fees on products and services at various service providers outlets. SMES-EA invites organizations to partner towards accessing affordable services and products within Kenya and the East African region by awarding the SMEs Partnership card holders a 15% discount on their products and services.

For more information on the modalities of enrolling into the Partnership Card program, kindly contact the undersigned.


Lydiah Njoroge
Programmes Director
Small and Medium Enterprise Support, East Africa

Lydiah Njoroge
+254-721-235-985
info@smeseastafrica.com

Business Advocacy Fund (BAF) holds a Breakfast media roundtable on business partnership in Kenya

Business Advocacy Fund in conjunction with the African Woman and Child Feature Service and the Kenya Editor’s Guild held a breakfast meeting on Wednesday 14th 2012 at Intercontinental Hotel

The aim of the breakfast was to have a roundtable discussion with the journalists and business writers on the status of business journalism in Kenya and together agree on a set of initiatives which the Business Advocacy Fund might support to enhance business journalism in Kenya and also help the skills of journalists reporting on business environment issues and how they affect overall development and also the realization of Vision 2030.

Launched in 2006, the Business Advocacy Fund is working to enable a wide range of private sector business membership organizations (BMOs), trade unions, civil society organizations (CSOs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), research organizations and others to engage with the government in processes leading to a sustainable improvement in the business environment in Kenya-- thereby creating jobs and economic growth needed to reduce poverty.

The meeting was addressed by Mr. Richard Muteti, CEO in the MSE Sector in Kenya who is also the Regional Project Manager of the East Africa Jua Kali Exhibitions and a senior representative from KEPSA and Clive Davis- the CEO of Business Advocacy Fund.

Sunday, March 11, 2012

IU RCED and EABC holds discussions on the roll-out of the MSME Mentorship Programme in the EAC region

IU Regional Center for Enterprise Development (RCED) holds discussions with the East Africa Business Council and the SMES, East Africa on the regional roll out of the MSME Mentorship Programme. The meeting was held in Arusha on 8th March 2012.
The above discussions were aimed at supporting growth oriented Small Businesses and create more jobs and businesses in the East African region.

The initiative has developed a system of training and qualifying business mentors/ advisors who will provide support to the many firms operating in both the formal and informal economy in the East African Community region (EAC) in order to contribute to more sustainable enterprise development.

The role of the trained business mentors is to generate advice and provide technical support on growth opportunities and of possibilities of financial and other support services on a regular basis to entrepreneurs – and especially young entrepreneurs.

The main Goal of the mentorship programme is to develop a critical mass of Business Mentors contributing to the growth of sustainable Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in the EAC

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) holds a Special Prime Minister Round Table to look at the State of the Economy

The need for a resilient Kenyan Economy takes priority as KEPSA holds a Special Prime Minister Round Table on the State of the Economy in Nairobi - February 29, 2012

Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) today held a Special Prime Minister Round Table to look at the State of the Economy. The discussions focused on the four thematic areas that have been identified as key factors that affect the Economy:
• Cost of Living
• Employment & Productivity
• Competitiveness and Regional Integration
• Trade and Investment

the Prime Minister assured the Private Sector that the government is equally concerned about the state of the Mombasa Port which affects many aspects of doing business. In addition to the ongoing Rapid Results Initiative, a special team will be dispatched to the Port to ensure that the congestion is cleared and put in place lasting solutions perennial inefficiencies. He was categorical that the government will solve the operational challenges at the Port of Mombasa to justify and give credence to constructing another Port in Lamu.

The various recommendations and commitments arrived at on the various thematic areas will be consolidated and made public in a week’s time.
The Special Prime Minister Round Table had more than 200 participants drawn from the government, the development partners, the diplomatic community and the Private Sector.

Monday, February 6, 2012

MBAO PENSION SCHEME

The Mbao (Kshs 20-a-day) or National Jua Kali Pension scheme which targets jua kali (or informal sector workers) artisans was developed by the National Federation of Kenya Jua Kali Associations and the Retirement Benefits Authority (RBA).

The individual pension plan is registered by both the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and RBA as Blue MSMEs Jua Kali Individual Retirement Benefit Scheme, which therefore allows it to run retirement plans for individual members.

The Mbao scheme is a voluntary pension savings program aimed to help people save for retirement, with the name ‘Mbao’ derived from the minimum Kshs 20 daily contribution that registered make to offer them a reliable income when they eventually retire from their jobs or businesses.

The common characteristics of the Jua Kali sector are that most are small-scale operations with individual or family ownership; players in the sector have no access to institutional credit facilities or other support and protection mechanisms; experience seasonal incomes and workers are generally not issued with pay slips.

Trade Mark East Africa (TMEA) holds a SME Stake Holders Workshop in Kampala, Uganda.

TradeMark East Africa (TMEA) which is going through the process of identifying opportunities to provide SME support held a one day “SME Stake Holders Workshop” on 30th January 2012 at Hotel Africana in Kampala, Uganda.

The objective of the workshop was to identify solutions to SME challenges that lie within Trademark East Africa's mandate and to identify potential partners for the same .the discussions covered SME constraints (internal and external) that Small Businesses face in the EAC region.

The specific purpose of the workshop was to build TMEA's understanding of support available to SMEs and to identify gaps where TMEA can intervene as well as possible partners.

TMEA is a not for profit organization which promotes regional trade and economic integration in the East African Community by working closely with the East African Community (EAC), institutions, National Governments, Business and the Civil Society Organizations and has presence in the five EAC Partner States

The Workshop was facilitated by DMT Consultants