Strengthening Kenya’s micro, small, and medium enterprises through policy and innovation
Kenya’s economic trajectory heavily relies on the growth and development of its Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Within this dynamic landscape, Medium Small Enterprises (MSMEs) emerge as the backbone, propelling growth, innovation, and employment opportunities. According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), there are over 7.4 million MSMEs employing approximately 14.9 million individuals, contributing approximately 40% of the GDP.
Maintaining high standards of quality, encouraging innovation, and advancing sustainability are essential to their success. With its Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise Policy, the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) becomes a key player in this regard, acting as a cornerstone for the growth of MSMEs.
The KEBS Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise Policy demonstrates a commitment to empowering and elevating the MSME sector. It goes beyond traditional regulatory frameworks by defining explicit principles and standards customized to the specific requirements of these enterprises. The policy not only ensures product and service quality but also promotes market access and competitiveness. Furthermore, it builds consumer and investor trust, setting the groundwork for long-term growth.
In today’s world, sustainability has become a critical concern for MSMEs. It’s no longer enough just to adhere to standards; incorporating sustainable practices into business operations is now a necessity. KEBS has taken significant strides and initiatives to actively promote the use of eco-friendly technologies, ethical business practices, and resource-efficient processes within the MSME ecosystem. By aligning standards with sustainability objectives, KEBS has already begun catalyzing a shift towards a more resilient and responsible business paradigm.
Through proactive initiatives and partnerships, KEBS continues to lead the charge in fostering sustainable practices among MSMEs, thus contributing to a greener and more sustainable future for Kenya’s economy.
The 7th annual Innovation Pipeline Symposium forum, organized by KEBS, underscores its commitment to fostering innovation within the MSME sector. This year the theme is dubbed, “Empowering the MSMEs Sector through Training & Certification.” The symposium was initiated by the Ministry of Investments, Trade & Industry, the then Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Cooperatives, in 2015.
It began as a workshop whose mandate was to aid entrepreneurs in achieving their objective of actualizing successful businesses. Over the years and with the support of the Ministry, KEBS has forged strong partnerships with organizations like the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA), Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK), Export Processing Zones Authority (EPZA), Industrial and Commercial Development Corporation (ICDC), Kenya Export Promotions & Branding Agency (KEPROBA), Kenya Industrial Estates (KIE), Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI), Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute (KIRDI), Kenya National Federation of Jua Kali Associations (KNFJKA), Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Micro and Small Enterprise Authority (MSEA), Women Enterprise Fund (WEF), and Youth Enterprise Development Fund (YEDF) committed to streamlining processes for MSMEs and empowering them to achieve great triumph.
Since its inception, the symposium has been a beacon of hope for entrepreneurs looking to make their business ventures a success. The forum provides a platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and mentorship through partnerships with various organizations and initiatives such as exhibitions. The symposium is dedicated to providing comprehensive support to MSMEs. These efforts empower industry
stakeholders to identify emerging trends and collectively address industry challenges, propelling MSMEs towards greater competitiveness and relevance in the global market. Additionally, the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) is devoted to fostering a culture of innovation among MSMEs. Through strategic collaborations and initiatives like the annual Innovation Pipeline forum, it empowers MSMEs to enhance their competitiveness and relevance in the global market. By doing so, KEBS is strengthening Kenya’s position as a hub for innovation-driven businesses and inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs to make their mark in the world.
In parallel, the recently launched Strategic Plan of KEBS heralds a new era of focus and efficacy in advancing the interests of MSMEs. With a clear roadmap and defined objectives, the Strategic Plan lays the groundwork for comprehensive policy interventions, capacity-building initiatives, and regulatory reforms that foster an enabling environment for MSMEs to thrive.
Through its strategic alignment with national development agendas and adherence to international best practices, KEBS has already begun amplifying its impact. By consistently championing innovation and quality standards, KEBS is actively positioning Kenya as a hub for MSMEs with a global footprint. Its ongoing initiatives and partnerships demonstrate KEBS’s commitment to fostering an environment where innovation driven MSMEs thrive, further solidifying Kenya’s reputation as a beacon of entrepreneurship and excellence on the international stage.
Moreover, with the recent approval of key market access initiatives such as the Kenya-EU Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), MSMEs are presented with unparalleled opportunities to tap into these markets and catalyze their economic fortunes.
This milestone not only signifies a gateway to lucrative international markets but also underscores the importance of strategic partnerships in propelling MSMEs towards sustainable growth and global competitiveness. By leveraging such agreements, MSMEs can harness their innovative potential and position themselves as formidable players in the global arena, thereby contributing to Kenya’s emergence as a hub for innovation-driven enterprises with a significant international footprint.
In conclusion, the nexus between policy, innovation, and sustainability holds the key to unlocking the full potential of Kenya’s Medium Small Enterprises. As custodians of quality standards and champions of progress, KEBS plays a vital role in shaping the future trajectory of the MSME sector. Through strategic interventions, collaborative partnerships, and visionary leadership, KEBS can pave the way for a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable ecosystem where MSMEs flourish and contribute meaningfully to the socio- economic development of the nation.
Shows
See AllAM Live
AM Live is NTV's morning current affairs show that sets the agenda for the day with insightful panels every weekday.
Business Redefined
Business Redefined is Kenya’s premier thought leadership platform for unpacking matters regarding economic and finance policy as well demystifying complex developments in the region’s capital markets.
Comedies
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Entertainment
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Full Episodes
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Gumzo La Sato
Gumzo La Sato is a live social issues show that aims to create awareness about issues affecting the larger society. The discussions range from Parenting, Marital bliss and struggles, Oppression, violence, and all matters of the Heart.
Health Diary
Health Diary is a weekly show that highlights different types of diseases/conditions and seeks ways to prevent, treat/manage them. The show debunks this through real life stories and also feature specialists in different fields, to offer medical advice on the same.
Letter To My Younger Self
Letter To My Younger Self is a podcast where guests get to write a letter to their younger self, from which Maxine formulates questions to ask them during the hour-long show.
Nation Reports
Nation Reports is a weekly podcast offers an opportunity for listeners to interact with various reporters and journey with them as they unravel the biggest most emotive stories.
One Health Lens Podcast
Discussing health matters and human stories from Kenya and across Africa. We talk big picture from people to policy, ecosystems, and everything in between. Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onehealthlens
Paradise Lost
Paradise Lost peeks through the story of Louis Otieno, the times, and everything in between.
Speaking of GEN Z
Speaking of Gen Z brings you entertaining but meaningful conversations about a generation that is trying to navigate through adulthood. Join hosts Michelle, Jackie and Esther as they unravel all things Gen Z.
Sport On
Sport-On is a 30-minute sports magazine show on NTV and 3 hours on NATION FM. The show seeks to give the sports “fanatics” and “funatics” comprehensive and in-depth coverage of sports both locally and internationally.
Tech-over
The extent of technological growth is beyond mere acknowledgment; it has seamlessly integrated into our daily existence. A few years ago, the notion of paying electricity bills through mobile money or recharging with 'tokens' in Kenya seemed inconceivable. Online product sales were considered distant, and artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping various facets of our lives. Amidst these technological leaps, those with a solid understanding of tech can navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and build a sustainable livelihood. Tech over Show aims to be the platform facilitating discussions among thought leaders, innovators, tech companies, and the government, addressing challenges and opportunities in Kenya's thriving tech industry.
Thamani
Thamani is a business show which is dedicated to emerging issues regarding micro, small and medium size businesses.
The Politalk podcast
This is The Politalk podcast. Here we look into the ins and outs of everything Kenyan politics. We pull no punches and have no reason to sugarcoat anything that matters to Kenyans.
The Trend
A two-hour-long live show that airs on Fridays. The show focuses on what is current in the entertainment industry, controversial and popular across all media platforms targeting those aged between 25 and 35 years.
The trend podcast
The trend podcast highlights and captures the best of banter from #TTTT segment that airs every Friday on NTV. It's the TTTT EXTRA
The Wicked Edition
The Wicked Edition with Dr. King’ori seeks to address serious issues through humour and relatable wit. It is a two-part half hour show filmed in front of a live audience
Trending
A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula A collection of our premium content. Diam curabitur vehicula
Twende
Twende is a travel show that highlights beautiful, unique, diverse locations, people, and cultures. The show offers fresh perspectives on familiar locations and memorable experiences in new ones.
Unscripted
This Saturday evening lifestyle show lets viewers share their stories and life experiences as openly & honestly for the purpose of shifting the culture of silence.
VIP Access
VIP ACCESS is Anyiko Owoko’s YouTube and podcast show on Music and Culture dedicated to promoting Africa’s most promising talent and creatives. This podcast grants you VIP access into timeless interviews while providing a platform for rising as well as established artists across the continent. Since launching in 2018, Anyiko has interviewed over 70 African music stars.
WADR
This weekly news show aims to have all sides of debate but not be constrained by it, listen to main voices in the contest but not allow them to hold the viewers hostage, entertain debate but allow push back with all due respect.
When death do us part
In this podcast, three widowers openly speak about the process of grief, how they found themselves exposed to the emotional turmoil of losing their wives, and how society still does not know how to deal with them.
Your World
Your World is a health, wellness and variety show. It provides a platform for audiences and experts to share their experiences on how to improve or manage health issues, across Kenya and the Africa region.