- Kenyan MSMEs prepare to showcase locally manufactured products at a major regional trade fair in Rwanda.
- Government officials urge entrepreneurs to use the exhibition to secure business deals and expand into new markets.
- The Kigali event targets stronger regional value chains and cross-border trade opportunities for Kenyan businesses.
Kenya has stepped up efforts to expand its regional export market after flagging off locally manufactured products to Kigali, Rwanda, ahead of the 26th East African Community (EAC) Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Trade Fair.
The products were flagged off at the Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA) Kariobangi Centre of Excellence in Nairobi during a ceremony presided over by Susan Auma Mang’eni, Principal Secretary in the State Department for MSME Development.
The trade fair, scheduled to run from October 30 to November 8, 2026, is expected to bring together approximately 1,200 enterprises, including about 600 Kenyan MSMEs seeking to showcase their products, establish business partnerships and access new markets across the region.
The initiative is part of the government’s efforts to strengthen local enterprises by connecting small businesses with regional buyers and creating opportunities for Kenyan made products to compete beyond the domestic market.
Speaking during the flag-off, Mang’eni urged participating entrepreneurs to use the exhibition as a platform to secure business deals, build lasting commercial relationships and identify new opportunities within the EAC and the wider African market.
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She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting small businesses through strategic partnerships, quality assurance, logistical assistance and collaboration among relevant government agencies.
The trade fair will operate under the theme “Advancing Regional Value Chains in Leather and Horticulture,” with exhibitors expected to display products from leather, horticulture, tea, edible oils, building and construction, among other priority sectors.
The participation of Kenyan enterprises is expected to provide a platform for local manufacturers and producers to engage potential distributors, retailers and other business partners while exploring opportunities to expand their customer base.
MSEA Director General Henry Rithaa said the authority was prepared for the exhibition, noting that approximately 600 Kenyan MSMEs were expected to participate in the event.
Kenya Day, scheduled for November 5, will provide a dedicated opportunity to showcase the country’s products, innovations and cultural heritage to regional audiences.
The event is also expected to highlight the contribution of small businesses to manufacturing, value addition and employment creation, particularly as governments across the region seek to strengthen intra African trade.
For Kenyan entrepreneurs, the exhibition offers an opportunity to move beyond displaying products and pursue tangible commercial outcomes, including export orders, distribution agreements and partnerships that could support business growth.
By Lizzy Aluga
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