Launch of the World Chambers Federation Africa Summit
The Cabinet Secretary Cooperatives and MSMEs Development Hon. Wycliffe Oparanya, alongside MSMES PS Susan Mang’eni and Cooperatives PS Patrick Kilemi, accompanied his Excellency, the President of Republic of Kenya, Dr. William Samoei Ruto during the launch of the World Chambers Federation Africa Summit.
The president reaffirmed the Government’s support in streamlining business processes to foster a more efficient and investor friendly environment where enterprises can thrive.
Speaking during official opening, Oparanya highlighted the indispensable role MSMEs play in shaping inclusive growth and driving Africa’s integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“MSMEs account for over 80% of Africa’s businesses and employ the majority of our workforce,” said Dr. Oparanya. “For AfCFTA to succeed, it must be built with MSMEs at its core.”
Dr. Oparanya emphasized that cooperatives are key to empowering small enterprises, especially in rural and underserved communities. He lauded models such as Sacco’s and producer cooperatives for helping individuals pool resources, access finance, and scale operations.
In addressing the persistent challenge of access to finance, the Cabinet Secretary spotlighted Kenya’s Financial Inclusion Fund—commonly known as the Hustler Fund—which has reached over 20 million Kenyans, primarily youth and women, with unsecured, low-interest loans. He also announced the ongoing rollout of a Credit Guarantee Scheme designed to reduce lending risk and encourage financial institutions to serve MSMEs more actively.
Recognizing the need for formalization of informal businesses, Dr. Oparanya introduced the government’s “Biashara Centers”—one-stop shops offering services such as registration, tax advisory, and business training.
“Formalization unlocks access to finance, legal protections, and trade under AfCFTA,” he noted.
The Cabinet Secretary also underscored Kenya’s focus on product certification, e-commerce, and export readiness training, with a special emphasis on women and youth entrepreneurs. He shared stories of local artisans and designers who have transitioned from informal settings to regional markets through targeted government support.
On the continental stage, Dr. Oparanya reiterated Kenya’s commitment to shaping a pan-African MSME strategy under the African Union, including the establishment of a continent-wide MSME financing facility.
“The transformation of Africa will not come from the top but will be driven by its people,” he stated. “As a government, our role is to empower them through inclusive policies and strong partnerships.” As Africa continues to harness the power of its entrepreneurs, Kenya is positioning itself at the forefront of inclusive and sustainable economic development—powered from the grassroots up.