NAKURU, Kenya — Co-operatives and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through progressive policies, affordable financing and expanded market access.
Speaking during the Elite Brands Awards International Gala Dinner in Nakuru on Wednesday, Oparanya said the Kenya Kwanza administration is implementing programmes designed to help small businesses grow, create jobs and contribute to the country’s economic transformation.
The Cabinet Secretary’s speech was delivered by his Special Advisor, Dr Edward Mudibo.
Oparanya said initiatives such as MSME Connect and regional trade fairs are opening new opportunities for entrepreneurs by linking businesses to markets while enhancing their competitiveness.
“We are committed to expanding access to affordable credit and creating an enabling environment for MSMEs to thrive,” Oparanya said.
He urged business owners to embrace innovation, invest in employee development, and create more opportunities for young people and women as part of efforts to build sustainable enterprises.
“A strong and sustainable brand is built on trust, innovation, and ethical leadership. Organisations should prioritise these values to enhance customer satisfaction and achieve sustainable growth,” he said.
MSMEs Key to Economic Growth
The Cabinet Secretary said MSMEs remain the backbone of Kenya’s economy, accounting for a significant share of employment and enterprise development.
He noted that government interventions are intended to reduce barriers that have historically limited the growth of small businesses, including inadequate access to affordable financing, markets and business development services.
Oparanya said strengthening the MSME sector would not only stimulate economic growth but also promote financial inclusion, innovation and wealth creation across the country.
Awards Celebrate Business Excellence
The Elite Brands Awards International Gala brought together leading African brands, corporate executives, entrepreneurs and institutions to recognise excellence in business leadership, innovation and service delivery.
The event was organised by Jubilant Stewards of Africa in partnership with the United SMEs Association of Kenya, Pacesetters International Research and Consultancy Ltd and other strategic partners.
Jubilant Stewards of Africa Executive Director Jared Oundo congratulated the award winners, saying they exemplify the values of ethical leadership and innovation.
“Today’s winners represent the very best of African enterprise, innovation, and leadership. Through quality service and ethical business practices, they are helping shape a more prosperous Africa,” Oundo said.
He explained that the awards aim to inspire organisations to pursue higher standards of performance while recognising businesses making a meaningful contribution to economic and social development.
Unique Evaluation Framework
Unlike many corporate awards that primarily assess financial performance, Oundo said the Elite Brands Awards International uses the Organizational Performance Index, a framework that evaluates leadership effectiveness, operational efficiency, ethical conduct, innovation, customer satisfaction, service delivery and social impact.
He said the approach provides a more comprehensive assessment of organisational excellence by recognising businesses that create value beyond profitability.
This year’s awards honoured organisations and individuals across diverse sectors, including manufacturing, banking and financial services, healthcare, education, engineering, logistics, real estate, hospitality, retail, technology, agriculture, renewable energy, construction, security services, entrepreneurship and community development.