The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) this morning hosted a high-level delegation from the Association of Small and Medium Knowledge Industries (ASMKI), India. The delegation, led by ASMKI President Shri Nalin Kohli, is in Kenya on a mission to establish strategic partnerships with local SMEs and startups in key knowledge sectors.

ASMKI represents India’s thriving small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in areas such as electronics, software, defense and security, biotechnology and healthcare, and clean technologies. The delegation is exploring avenues for technology transfer, business collaboration, and joint ventures with Kenyan enterprises. This effort is part of India’s broader strategy to increase its market presence in Africa, offering quality and cost-effective alternatives to Western corporations.

Welcoming the delegation, KNCCI President Dr. Erick Rutto emphasized the significance of South-South cooperation and acknowledged the valuable lessons Kenya can learn from India’s SME-led innovation ecosystem. “India has demonstrated how SMEs in knowledge sectors can drive large-scale job creation, innovation, and inclusive development. Kenya can benefit immensely through technology and skills transfer, particularly in high-impact sectors like software development, biotech, and healthcare,” said Dr. Rutto.

He further highlighted KNCCI’s commitment to facilitating platforms where local entrepreneurs can access global expertise, partnerships, and markets. “The future of trade is knowledge-based. Our role is to ensure Kenyan businesses are equipped, connected, and competitive.”

The two sides discussed opportunities for joint innovation, market linkages, and capacity-building initiatives tailored for Kenyan SMEs. Of particular interest was ASMKI’s proposal to support local tech hubs and innovation centers in accessing Indian technology solutions, training, and mentorship.

The Association also revealed plans to host a major Technology Summit later this year, which will serve as a platform to connect Indian knowledge-based SMEs with partners across Africa, including Kenya. KNCCI expressed its readiness to support the summit and mobilize relevant stakeholders from the public and private sectors to ensure impactful engagement.

This visit aligns with KNCCI’s broader strategy to promote innovation-driven entrepreneurship, strengthen bilateral commercial relations, and unlock opportunities in emerging industries critical to Kenya’s economic transformation.