PS Susan Mang’eni Champions MSME Inclusion in Global Value Chains at OECD Emerging Markets Forum in Istanbul

The Principal Secretary for MSME Development, Hon. Susan Auma Mang’eni, addressed  the high-level OECD Emerging Markets Forum held in Istanbul, themed “Making Connectivity Work for Resilient Global Value Chains.” 

Representing Kenya and the broader African context, PS Mang’eni shared insights on how emerging markets—especially in Africa can strengthen their role in global trade by empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

In her remarks, PS Mang’eni underscored Africa’s immense potential as the world’s most dynamic emerging market and highlighted Kenya’s leadership in building inclusive and competitive global value chains. “We must bolster the capacity of our MSMEs to participate meaningfully in international trade,” she said. 

“Connectivity, both physical and digital is key, but so is policy coherence, financing, innovation, and capacity building.”

The PS outlined Kenya’s multi-faceted strategy to globalize its MSME sector. For instance, Kenya was among the first to ratify the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and has developed a National AfCFTA Implementation Strategy (2022–2027). It has also secured bilateral trade deals with the UK, EU, and the U.S., enabling MSMEs to benefit from preferential market access.

The government of  Kenya has established  county-level aggregation and industrial parks to facilitate value addition in sectors such as dairy, leather, edible oils, and textiles. These hubs provide SMEs with processing equipment and shared infrastructure to meet global quality standards.

Through initiatives like the Exporters Academy and the Green Economy Youth Activation Program, Kenya is training a new generation of trade advisors and entrepreneurs with the skills to export successfully. Agencies such as KEBS and KEPHIS are helping SMEs comply with international standards.

Kenya is expanding EPZs and SEZs like Dongo Kundu and Konza Technopolis to attract investment and integrate local firms into multinational supply chains. Notably, the share of locally-owned firms in EPZs has grown to over 42%.

To unlock access to finance,Programs like the Hustler Fund and SME Credit Guarantee Scheme are unlocking capital for small businesses. The government is also facilitating partnerships between SMEs and large corporates, such as Unilever’s supplier development program, which now sources 70% of its inputs locally.

With initiatives like the Ajira Digital Program and the Startup Act, Kenya is enabling tech-enabled SMEs and freelancers to tap into global e-commerce and digital service markets, reinforcing the country’s reputation as Africa’s "Silicon Savannah.

Mang’eni emphasized that inclusive global connectivity starts at the grassroots. “Our SMEs are no longer just local businesses,they are part of international networks,from flower farms in Naivasha to tech hubs in Nairobi. By continuing to invest in infrastructure, skills, and innovation, Kenya is not just participating in global value chains, but we are shaping them.”

The forum brought together policymakers, business leaders, and development partners to discuss strategies for building resilient, diversified, and inclusive value chains in a rapidly shifting global landscape.