President William Ruto has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by expanding access to affordable credit and financing.

Speaking at the official opening of the 2025 East African Community (EAC) MSMEs Trade Fair at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi, on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, the Head of State said his administration will empower its young citizens by creating jobs in the MSMEs sector through the provision of grants, such as the Hustler Fund and other digital credit means.

Boosting MSMEs

”The Hustler Fund, for example, has disbursed over Ksh80 billion to 26.7 million people since 2022, offering dignified credit to those previously excluded from formal finance. Through the NYOTA programme, we are empowering 110,000 young entrepreneurs with training, mentorship, and start-up grants to drive innovation and job creation,” Ruto said.

While welcoming the International Trade Organisation’s decision to set up its regional hub in Nairobi, Ruto said the move will affirm Kenya’s leadership in trade and investment, further noting that his government is keen to invest in value addition.

”We are also investing in value addition and agro-processing through County Aggregation and Industrial Parks in all 47 counties and developing special economic zones in Busia-Nasewa, Naivasha, Eldoret, Kirinyaga, and Dongo Kundu to attract investment and boost industrialisation. We recognise that the sector drives the economy, creates jobs, and builds wealth for our people,” he added.

MSME Trade Fair benefits

Over 3,000 exhibitors from across the East African Community (EAC) got an opportunity to showcase a variety of products and services, which, according to the Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs Development, Wycliffe Oparanya, is a true reflection of the region’s creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Speaking at the same event, CS Oparanya said the Trade Fair provides a platform for young people to network and share ideas, as well as exposing cooperatives to the world.

”Kenya takes great pride in hosting this important regional event. The fair provides a unique platform for our MSMEs and cooperatives to network, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities for cross-border trade and growth.”

“MSMEs remain the backbone of our regional economies. Through collaboration and innovation, we are unlocking their potential to create jobs, generate wealth, and drive sustainable development across East Africa,” Wycliffe Oparanya said.