Isiolo County has stepped up efforts to strengthen small businesses by hosting the sixth edition of the Kenya Public‑Private Sector MSMEs Dialogue- the MSME Connect Forum. The event brought together entrepreneurs, government agencies, financial institutions, and development partners to explore opportunities for enterprise growth and resilience.
Hundreds of business owners from across the county attended the forum, which focused on tackling persistent challenges facing Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), including limited access to financing, markets and business development services.
Speaking during the event, Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA) Chief Executive Officer Henry Rithaa, who represented Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs Development Wycliffe Oparanya, commended local entrepreneurs for the quality and diversity of products showcased during the exhibition. He urged traders and manufacturers to leverage networking opportunities and support services available through public‑private partnerships.
“The quality of products displayed here demonstrates the immense potential of local enterprises. Entrepreneurs should take advantage of the opportunities created through such forums to expand their businesses and access new markets,”
MSEA Chief Executive Officer-Henry Rithaa
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The forum was attended by Isiolo Deputy Governor James Lowasa, representing Governor Abdi Ibrahim Hassan, alongside County Commissioner Mwachaunga Chaunga, Senior MSMEs Advisor Rose Mwaura, and representatives from corporate institutions and development organisations.
In his keynote address, Dr Lowasa reaffirmed the county government’s commitment to strengthening the MSME sector, describing small businesses as a critical pillar of the local economy. “MSMEs are the backbone of our local economy. Through partnerships and targeted support, we will continue creating opportunities that help our entrepreneurs grow and succeed,” he said.
Organisers noted that the resolutions and partnerships established during the forum are expected to contribute significantly to the continued growth, resilience and transformation of Isiolo’s MSME sector, while also supporting national efforts to build a stronger, more inclusive economy.
By Masaki Enock
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