- KEPSA will host its third SME Conference, Awards and Exhibition on July 23 to 24 in Nairobi.
- The event will address SME financing, governance, market access and business competitiveness.
- KEPSA says SMEs employ 15 million people and contribute 40 per cent of Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) is set to host its third annual Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) Conference, Awards and Exhibition from July 23 to 24, bringing together entrepreneurs, financiers, investors and policymakers to discuss strategies for strengthening small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
The two-day event, scheduled to take place at All Saints Cathedral in Nairobi, comes at a time when many SMEs are facing liquidity challenges, high borrowing costs and increasing operating expenses.
More than 2,500 delegates are expected to attend the conference, where discussions will centre on improving access to affordable financing, strengthening corporate governance, expanding market access and enhancing the competitiveness of SMEs.
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Speaking on a morning local radio show on Monday, July 20, KEPSA Chief SME and Enterprise Development Officer Harrison Ngatia noted that SMEs remain the backbone of Kenya’s economy.
“SMEs employ approximately 15 million people, representing more than 80 per cent of Kenya’s workforce. They also contribute about 40 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and account for 98 per cent of all businesses in the country,” he said.
He noted that despite playing a vital role in the economy, many SMEs still face challenges accessing affordable credit.
“There is a lot of liquidity in the market, but businesses are struggling to access affordable financing. Credit may be available, but the cost remains a major challenge for many enterprises,” said Ngatia.
He encouraged entrepreneurs to formalise their businesses early by embracing proper financial management, strong governance structures and legal compliance, noting that these measures enhance their ability to attract investment.
“Investor readiness begins from the early stages of a business. Strong governance, proper financial records, leadership capacity and compliance make it easier for businesses to access the right funding at lower risk and more favourable interest rates,” said Ngatia.
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The conference will feature expert led masterclasses, business to business networking sessions, investment readiness clinics, and panel discussions on taxation, digital transformation, and market access. Industry leaders and financiers will also share practical insights on scaling and financing businesses.
The event will further host the SME Innovation Excellence Awards and the SME Enablers Awards, celebrating outstanding businesses and organisations that have demonstrated innovation and excellence in advancing the growth and development of Kenya’s SME sector.
By Frank Mugwe
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