MSMEs Archives - KNCCI https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/tag/msmes/ The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Wed, 02 Jul 2025 14:59:48 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.2 https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/cropped-ogimage-default-32x32.jpg MSMEs Archives - KNCCI https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/tag/msmes/ 32 32 KNCCI, Cape Media to Launch a Transformative Initiative to Spotlight & Promote MSMEs https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2025/07/02/kncci-cape-media-to-launch-a-transformative-initiative-to-spotlight-promote-msmes/ https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2025/07/02/kncci-cape-media-to-launch-a-transformative-initiative-to-spotlight-promote-msmes/#respond Wed, 02 Jul 2025 13:53:28 +0000 https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/?p=7130 The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), in partnership with Cape Media, is launching a transformative initiative to spotlight and promote Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the country. This collaboration will feature selected businesses on TV47, Radio47, and 47 Digital platforms, offering MSMEs a powerful platform to gain national visibility, showcase [...]

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The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), in partnership with Cape Media, is launching a transformative initiative to spotlight and promote Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the country.

This collaboration will feature selected businesses on TV47, Radio47, and 47 Digital platforms, offering MSMEs a powerful platform to gain national visibility, showcase their products and services, share success stories, and connect with broader markets and potential investors.

Through this strategic media partnership, five MSMEs will be featured weekly on TV47’s flagship program “The Grind”, as well as on Radio47 and digital platforms. The initiative will highlight Kenyan entrepreneurship across all 47 counties, capturing diverse innovations, business models, and inspiring journeys that define the MSME landscape.

This collaboration marks a bold step toward amplifying MSME voices, driving economic empowerment, and supporting local innovation. By profiling enterprises from every corner of Kenya, we aim to celebrate homegrown solutions and catalyze growth opportunities for emerging businesses.

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THE POST COVID-19 RECOVERY MECHANISM AND THE AFRICAN CONTINENTAL FREE TRADE AREA (AfCFTA): 4TH JUNE, 2020 https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2020/06/11/the-post-covid-19-recovery-mechanism-and-the-african-continental-free-trade-area-afcfta-4th-june-2020/ https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2020/06/11/the-post-covid-19-recovery-mechanism-and-the-african-continental-free-trade-area-afcfta-4th-june-2020/#respond Thu, 11 Jun 2020 12:25:15 +0000 https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/?p=1984 Background The ripple effect of COVID-19 on economic activities, livelihoods and food security in East Africa and the Great Lakes. Governments throughout the region moved swiftly to adopt far-reaching measures to limit the spread of COVID-19, including the closure of international borders, movement restrictions, curfews and lockdowns. While these measures appear to have curbed the [...]

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Background

The ripple effect of COVID-19 on economic activities, livelihoods and food security in East Africa and the Great Lakes. Governments throughout the region moved swiftly to adopt far-reaching measures to limit the spread of COVID-19, including the closure of international borders, movement restrictions, curfews and lockdowns.

While these measures appear to have curbed the pandemic’s progression, its negative repercussions have led to a near-total halt to air transport, tourism, agriculture and other extractive industry activities.

To discuss the impact of Covid-19 in Africa and the future of Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) in partnership with the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), East Africa Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, the Great Lakes Region Private Sector Forum organized a webinar session to discuss and identify opportunities for Covid-19 recovery mechanism and way forward for AfCFTA trade and integration.

To help consolidate the highlights KNCCI together with the fore mentioned partners brought on board panelist representatives from: Secretary General of the Uganda National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Ms. Olive Kigongo; Chairman of the East Africa Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture Mr. Kahotho; Director UNECA- Regional Integration and Trade Division, Mr. Stephen Karingi, PhD; Director, UNECA- ECA Sub-Regional Office for East Africa, Mama Keita, Senior Trade Advisor Ministry of Trade ,Mr. George DInda

Topics Discussed.

  • Opportunities that AfCFTA presents
  • Impact of Covid-19 on trade Facilitation and Performance in Africa
  • Mechanism put in place to support regional markets and supply chain stabilization in the post Covid-19
  • Possible Economic Stimulus and Fiscal measures taken to cushion businesses
  • Critical economic sectors that needs priority in the Covid-19 recovery process
  • Impact of Covid-19 on the EAC businesses and the Government Responses
  • Post Covid-19 economic recovery measures that needs to be implemented to support private sector to contribute to the AfCFTA and Trade Integration Agenda
  1. Opportunities that AfCFTA presents

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement presents Africa with a unique opportunity to unleash its economic potential for inclusive growth and sustainable development.  It aims to promote agricultural transformation and growth in Africa and contribute to food security, as well as improve competitiveness through regional agricultural value chains development and incentivize critical investments in production and marketing infrastructure.

In his opening remarks, the UNECA Regional Director, Integration and Trade Division, Dr. Stephen Karingi stated that that AfCFTA has the potential to deepen not only the regional integration of the continent but also has allowed the African countries to do more of value addition in the production processes. According to UNECA, it is estimated that by 2020, AfCFTA will increase significantly and that two-thirds of this increase would be on value addition.

Dr. Karingi, said the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) could help mitigate effects of COVID-19, especially on pharmaceuticals and food stuffs.

“A rapid and ambitious implementation of the AfCFTA will go a long way in hastening the recovery from COVID-19 impacts, while cushioning Africa against future adverse effects of shocks such as this,” said Dr. Karingi.

Africa spends billions on drugs annually and depends heavily on China and other countries in Europe and Asia for its pharmaceutical supply, some of which are badly affected by the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Mr. Karingi said African countries could start manufacturing the drugs themselves, which would not only be cheaper, but would also help secure the quality and safety of supply; and contribute to financial sustainability as import bills are increasing across the continent.

AfCFTA had agreed on five priority services – financial services, communication, transport, tourism and business services – and will engage in the negotiations through a request and offer process to make specific sector commitments. Due to Covid-19 the member’s states are now re negotiating to add services such as E-commerce, Health and Digital Education.

In the ensuing discussion, the EACCIA Chairman, Mr. Kahotho echoed that critical role KNCCI has to play for the successful implementation of the AfCFTA agenda. Mandated to facilitate trade, KNCCI must see that during this time of the pandemic, trade must be facilitated so that jobs can be created and also to see that we add value to our natural resources.

  1. Possible Economic Stimulus and Fiscal measures taken to cushion businesses

The UNECA – ECA Sub – Regional Office for East Africa, Mama Keita stated that the Covid -19 crisis has shown the role that the state must play in the development process in the respective countries. Most countries are now rising to the challenge and cushioning businesses through the following measures:

  • A liquidity be made available to the private sector to ensure the continuity of essential purchases and all SMEs that are dependent on trade can continue to function.
  • Emergency economic stimulus.
  • Waiver of all interest payments
  • Flexibility in taxation
  • Payments of areas to private sectors
  • And Government provision of guarantors to SMEs
  • Subsidies
  1. Critical economic sectors that needs priority in the Covid-19 recovery process
  • Health
  • Tourism
  • Logistics
  • Constructions
  • Domestic markets
  • Agriculture
  1. Mechanism put in place to support regional markets and supply chain stabilization in the post Covid-19

According to the Ugandan Chamber of Commerce and Industry Secretary General, Ms. Brenda, Uganda Has put the following measures;

  • Support to domestic markets and encouragement of consumption of domestic goods
  • Allowing movement of essential goods and services by not restricting the logistic industry
  • Ensuring that there are adequate storage facilities to cushion spoilage of perishable goods
  • Encouraging value addition to the agricultural sector products
  1. Impact of Covid-19 on the EAC businesses and the Government Responses
  • Inadequate access to sourcing raw materials
  • Facing cross border restrictions
  • Decline of Export market
  • Decline in sales
  1. Post Covid-19 economic recovery measures that needs to be implemented to support private sector to contribute to the AfCFTA and Trade Integration Agenda.
  • Consumption of local products
  • Securing the demand and supply for locally produced goods
  • Support innovation, manufacturing
  • African Countries should trade amongst themselves
  • There must be access to liquidity and new financial means in the future
  • Deepen and strengthen the African financial markets
  • Resource mobilization
  • Ensuring competitiveness amongst African countries
  • Deepening regional value chain

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KNCCI – EQUITY BANK PARTNERSHIP MEETING (INCEPTION MEETING) https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2020/05/14/kncci-equity-bank-partnership-meeting-inception-meeting/ https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2020/05/14/kncci-equity-bank-partnership-meeting-inception-meeting/#respond Thu, 14 May 2020 07:46:38 +0000 https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/?p=1950 On 9th May, 2020 the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry announced their partnership with equity bank that saw Equity establish a Sh. 200billion kitty for Chamber Member enterprises to facilitate and sustain their businesses through this period where COVID-19 has disrupted their businesses. As a follow up, the two entities today 13th May [...]

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On 9th May, 2020 the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry announced their partnership with equity bank that saw Equity establish a Sh. 200billion kitty for Chamber Member enterprises to facilitate and sustain their businesses through this period where COVID-19 has disrupted their businesses.

As a follow up, the two entities today 13th May 2020 held a consultative meeting to discuss and align on how to leverage synergies.

Attending the inception meeting were the bank’s Chief Commercial Officer Polycarp Igathe, KNCCI President Mr. Richard Ngatia, KNCCI CEO Ms. Angela Ndambuki, Rose Mwaura, Chairperson KNCCI legal and Regulatory Committee and Chairman –ICPAK and Mr. Sam Omukoko, the Group Managing Director and CEO Metropol Corporation.

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ARTISANS IN TENDER DEAL WITH CHAMBER https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2020/05/05/artisans-in-tender-deal-with-chamber/ https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2020/05/05/artisans-in-tender-deal-with-chamber/#respond Tue, 05 May 2020 07:05:46 +0000 https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/?p=1925 The chamber of commerce has partnered with a local Jua Kali lobby to help Jua Kali startups obtain State tenders for manufacture of medical equipment. According to a joint statement released last week by the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) and the Kenya National Federation of Jua Kali Associations (KNFJKA), the startups [...]

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The chamber of commerce has partnered with a local Jua Kali lobby to help Jua Kali startups obtain State tenders for manufacture of medical equipment.

According to a joint statement released last week by the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) and the Kenya National Federation of Jua Kali Associations (KNFJKA), the startups will leverage on a new government initiative to boost their productivity as part of a post-Covid-19 economic recovery plan.

Last month, President Uhuru Kenyatta announced that the Government will engage Medium and small enterprises (MSEs) in the manufacture of basic medical equipment.

The equipment will be supplied to local hospitals and will also be exported. KNFJKA Chief Executive Richard Muteti asked his lobby members to liaise with county chamber offices to enable them participate in the tender bidding process.

Mr Muteti also asked KNFJKA members to liaise with county governments on how they can obtain interest free State loans.

Richard Ngatia, the KNCCI president, agreed that it is time Jua Kali artisans were allowed to play an important role in the country’s manufacturing sector.

“This is an opportunity to enhance the Jua Kali sector,” said Mr Ngatia.

Uhuru late last month said some Sh1.5 billion would be used in an initiative to help local startups participate in the boosting of healthcare.

The Jua Kali sector, the president said, would take centre stage in the production of medical equipment.

Muteti noted that as Covid-19 continues to ravage the country and the rest of the world, the Jua Kali sector has been on the forefront in coming up with innovations that are sealing gaps in the local medical supply chain.

“The Jua Kali sector in Kenya is currently making every effort to be part of a solution to the current pandemic,” said Muteti.

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NYERI COUNTY COVID-19 FUND LAUNCHED https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2020/05/05/nyeri-county-covid-19-fund-launched/ https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2020/05/05/nyeri-county-covid-19-fund-launched/#respond Tue, 05 May 2020 06:59:38 +0000 https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/?p=1920 The County Government of Nyeri has launched the Nyeri COVID-19 Fund which is aimed at benefiting the destitute and vulnerable families in the county who have been affected by the pandemic. H.E Governor Mutahi Kahiga has reiterated that a multi-sectoral committee has already been formed which draws stakeholders from the county government, national government through [...]

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The County Government of Nyeri has launched the Nyeri COVID-19 Fund which is aimed at benefiting the destitute and vulnerable families in the county who have been affected by the pandemic.

H.E Governor Mutahi Kahiga has reiterated that a multi-sectoral committee has already been formed which draws stakeholders from the county government, national government through the office of the county commissioner, Kenya National Chambers of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), Red Cross, Kenya Secondary School Heads Association (KESSHA), Nyeri Business Owners Association and the Nyeri Asian Community which will aid in raising funds for mitigation of the effects of COVID-19.

Governor Kahiga called upon people of goodwill to join in and channel their donations through the Paybill: 400222 Account name: 562706# YOUR NAME or through Cooperative Bank Account number: 01141991686400. For purposes of accountability, this account has different signatories drawn from the partners mentioned above.

While at it, he appreciated the efforts of Mt. Kenya Academy who have so far donated Ksh. 200,000, Cooperative Bank who have donated Ksh. 300,000, KESSHA who donated 22 reusable PPEs worth Ksh. 100,000 and philanthropic businessman Bipin Shah (Kasturi) who together with the Asian Community has been providing foodstuffs twice a week for 125 needy families.

Governor Kahiga also revealed that 30% of his salary, 10% of CECs, and 5% of other senior employees’ salaries will be channeled to the COVID-19 kitty.

KNCCI, Nyeri chapter Chair Ibrahim Ndegwa called upon all to join synergies to fight the pandemic and urged leaders not to politicize the efforts being put up to curb the disease.

Over 200,000 residents in Nyeri County are at risk of starvation during this time of coronavirus. The funds will go a long way in mitigating the effects of the COVID-19.

Also present during the launch were County Secretary Ben Gachichio, Chief of staff Paul Wambugu, Youth, Gender and Social Services CEC Esther Ndung’u,  Health CEC Dr. Rachel Kamau,Water CEC Fredrick Kinyua, Agriculture CEC James Wachihi and Trade CEC Diana Kendi.

Also present were KESSHA Nyeri chapter chairman Cyrus Wachira with a team from KESSHA, Red Cross Nyeri county coordinator Peris Wanjiku, Nyeri Business Owners Association Secretary General Daniel Macharia, Nyeri Central Deputy County Commissioner Joseph Mwangi, KNCCI Nyeri Chapter CEO Martin Ndirangu, Gikondi MCA Hon. Mary Wamuyu among other team members representing the aforementioned entities.

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KNCCI BUSINESS CONTINUITY AND SUSTAINABILITY- COUNTY FOCUS WEBINAR DISCUSSION https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2020/04/28/kncci-business-continuity-and-sustainability-county-focus-webinar-discussion/ https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2020/04/28/kncci-business-continuity-and-sustainability-county-focus-webinar-discussion/#respond Tue, 28 Apr 2020 08:46:39 +0000 https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/?p=1900 Introduction To ensure business continuity, having an emergency plan is essential. In the current situation, it is vital to react as fast as possible in order to mitigate against impact and other risks and to prepare organizations for the further escalation of the COVID-19 pandemic and the scenarios that may unfold. This disruptive business environment [...]

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Introduction

To ensure business continuity, having an emergency plan is essential. In the current situation, it is vital to react as fast as possible in order to mitigate against impact and other risks and to prepare organizations for the further escalation of the COVID-19 pandemic and the scenarios that may unfold.

This disruptive business environment emphasizes the need for businesses to put in place robust business continuity plans (BCPs), which anticipate a broad range of events that could create severe disruption for the business.

The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) has been in the forefront in proposing  both short and long term measures to support the  Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) particularly at the County level to continue with their business activities with minimal interruptions and ensure sustainability.  To lessen the risk of business discontinuity, KNCCI lead by its President Mr. Richard Ngatia today held a virtual discussion with its selected County chairmen (Mombasa, Narok, Nyandarua and Bungoma) and in absentia, H. E Dr. Wycliffe Wangamati; Governor Bungoma County to discuss:

  • Intervention measures and mechanism adopted to ensure Business Continuity
  • Policies effected to enhance Business Sustainability
  • Market intervention and protection of the value chain aggregators
  • Cross boarder challenges
  • Rent and Labour Protection measures
  1. Intervention Measures and Mechanisms adopted by the Counties to ensure Business Continuity
  • Installation of sensitization and fumigated booths for Mombasa – Likoni Ferry users.
  • Sensitization of business communities on sanitization, social distancing, masks wearing and hand washing.
  • Fumigation of open air markets
  • Digging of boreholes to ensure free and efficient water to the communities.
  1. Policies effected to enhance business sustainability

The county chapters have each in their own capacities collaborated with County governments to:

  • Waiver fee on all taxes for the hotel Industry and transportation (Mombasa)
  • Implementation of food relief programs; Mombasa chapter in collaboration with Mombasa County Government has launched a Household and nutrition program to help provide food of nutritional value to vulnerable groups affected during this pandemic. On the other hand, Bungoma chapter in collaboration with the Kenya Red Cross Society of Kenya and the County Government of Bungoma has a fundraising kitty (Donating in kind) to help distribute food to its community.
  • Extension of single business permits and licenses to small business traders and public service vehicles providing essential goods and services.
  1. Cross Boarder Issues
  • Contributing to this, KNCCI Mombasa chapter chair Mr. Mustapha stated that the chapter has collaborated with the County Government to streamline the movement of essential goods and services in and out of Mombasa. The County has also ensured that all medical equipment and PPE s are given first priority at the port of Mombasa when it comes to clearance.
  • In Bungoma, the chapter through the County Government has ensured that the Uganda boarder remains operational to allow provision and constant flow of essential goods and services.
  1. Rent and Labour Protection Measures

On the issue on rent to pay or not, the County chapter chairmen suggested that for this to happen:

  • The national government should waiver all taxes for landlords for at least size months or a year.
  • Banks to temporarily stop charging interests and also delay principal charges on all loans owed by the landlords.
  • Actions to Support SMEs
  • Encourage SMEs to adopt e-commerce
  • Banks and other online lenders to roll over loans owned by SMEs to June 2020 to allow SMEs continue doing business.
  1. KNCCI Women in Business Contribution

In her remarks, Women in Business chairperson Ms. Nato stressed that;

  • Women be appointed to the response committee at each county.
  • Women be involved in the identification process of vulnerable groups that needs support during this pandemic.
  • Nato said that the WIB committee has come up with “Support a tailor to support a retailer” initiative to support the fashion industry and retailers by producing masks that are in return distributed to small business owners.

H.E Governor Dr. Wycliffe Wangamati: County Government of Bungoma statement National Economic and Business Response

  1. Need to cushion employees on possibility of loss of income.

Initiative

  1. Increase Disposable Income to Kenyans. Actions are as below:
  2. 100% Tax relief for persons earning gross monthly income of up to Ksh. 24,000
  3. Reduction of P.A.Y.E from 30% to 25%
  4. Reduction of Corporation tax from 30% to 25%
  5. Reduction of Turnover Tax from 3% to 1% for all MSMEs.
  6. Need to cushion and support the elderly, orphans and other vulnerable members of society.

The government to give an additional 10 billion to the elderly of which Ksh. 8.5 have been disbursed.

  1. Need to increase access to credit for business: the government has temporarily suspended listing with Credit Reference Bureau.
  2. Resource Mobilization: Need to facilitate the functioning of the National Response to COVID-19 committees. All coordinated National Response Committees to provide their resource requirements. This has been done by successfully establishing a COVID-19 response fund and so far funds collected amount to Ksh. 1 billion.

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PHILANTHROPY AND BUSINESS ON FOOD SECURITY DURING COVID19 PANDEMIC IN KENYA https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2020/04/28/philanthropy-and-business-on-food-security-during-covid19-pandemic-in-kenya/ https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2020/04/28/philanthropy-and-business-on-food-security-during-covid19-pandemic-in-kenya/#respond Tue, 28 Apr 2020 08:28:07 +0000 https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/?p=1894 Introduction The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) and East African Philanthropy Network (EAPN) on April 21, 2020 held a webinar and open discussion to deliberate on Food Security during the COVID19 Pandemic in Kenya. The panelists for this session were: Prof. Hamadi Iddi Boga, Principal Secretary State Department for Crop Development and [...]

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Introduction

The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) and East African Philanthropy Network (EAPN) on April 21, 2020 held a webinar and open discussion to deliberate on Food Security during the COVID19 Pandemic in Kenya. The panelists for this session were: Prof. Hamadi Iddi Boga, Principal Secretary State Department for Crop Development and Agriculture Research, Mr. Arif Neky, Advisor for strategic Partnerships at the UN Resident Coordinators office in Kenya and Mr. Francis Gitonga, Chairman, Agricultural Committee- KNCCI. The session was moderated by Mr. Evans Okinyi- C.E.O. -EAPN.

The joint initiative was in solidarity with the National efforts, supporting government’s intervention and priority areas. Besides the concentrated focus on health care provisions and systems, the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) warns that if proper measures are not put in place the situation could lead to a food security crisis. Furthermore, the World Food Programme (WFP) warns that African countries would face disproportionate risk from supply chain failures especially in the face of border-crossing closures.

The impacts of farmers leaving their fields fallow due to of illness and breakdowns in non-food supply chains, like fertilizer and other critical inputs, may ultimately impact developing-countries’ economies. On the demand side, WFP notes there could be a loss of purchasing power as a result of people’s eating patterns leading to poorer nutrition, panic purchases of food likely to break the supply chain and eventually price hikes.

In light of this, EAPN and KNCCI deliberated on the following two key agenda items:

  • The Impact of COVID19 Pandemic on Food Security in Kenya: Situation Analysis and Projections
  • Securing Livelihoods – Best Joint Interventions for the Most Vulnerable Populations.
  • The Impact of COVID19 Pandemic on Food Security in Kenya: Situation Analysis and Projections

Amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives calls on farmers and agriculture stakeholders to intensify production and to coordinate efforts to ensure timely availability of inputs, extension support, transportation and value addition as the planting season commences.

In his remarks, Principle Secretary, Prof. Boga, said, the Government through the Ministry of Agriculture and the Council of Governors had released an update on the national food balance sheet with projected stocks up to June 2020, with keen focus in the following produce Cassava, Irish potato, Rice, Maize, Pulses, Wheat, Bananas (matoke), Millet, Sorghum, Milk, Meat, Fish, Local vegetables and Fortified food.

He went on to say, “In a bid to minimize disruptions to the food chain and we have put in place a COVID-19 Food Security War Room to swiftly address any emerging issues to ensure: –

  • Continuous flow of produce
  • Minimal disruption of markets
  • Pricing management
  • Maintain sufficient stock
  • Maintain support of inputs
  • Limit disruption to export market
  • Support farmers in the mitigation of impact of locust.

Boga called on those present to gear up support for the vulnerable communities. He said the number of vulnerable will increase from the approximately 5.8 million already identified and categorized as “needy population” and support needs to be channeled for their support. He also called for support in educating and supplying small traders in markets, the Boda Boda who rely on daily wages to earn a living, to comply with the COVID -19 guidelines and directives issued by the Ministry of Health.

Securing Livelihoods – Best Joint Interventions for the Most Vulnerable Populations

The number of vulnerable Kenyans will likely to increase during this pandemic. During the meeting, approximately 5.8 million Kenyans, especially in the urban areas will be affected.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Arif Neky said “There is need to create an ecosystem of partnerships towards the achievement of the Government’s Big4agenda, especially in the food and security sector.” The private sector Food and Security Window system ( a collaboration between KEPSA, KNCCI and AGRA) and the launch of the Agriculture Sector Network (ASNET) as the sector apex body for the agriculture sector and the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Platform window on food and nutrition security was a good step towards the protection and development of the agricultural sector as this will create a clear roadmap for the next 3years in strengthening food and nutrition. He added.

Echoing these sentiments, Ms. Nemaisa Kiereini, KNCCI special programs and donor liaison stated that Chamber is already partnering with organizations such as the fashion industry and RetailPay to provide the vulnerable industries such as Boda Bodas and small markets with masks, water and soap for sanitization as well as sensitizing them on social distancing. Through this, it ensures that we create jobs opportunities for women and youth, she stated.

  1. Locust Invasion

The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has become a major cause of worry for farmers in Kenya unable to sell their produce and things have become more difficult in areas affected by locusts. This could have adverse impacts on the agricultural seasonal yields and local economies, affecting food security. Hamadi, in his statement said that the government through the Ministry has put on measures like aerial spraying to help manage the situation. The Ministry of Agriculture and collaborators at the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), The National Youth Service (NYS) and the County governments are in 13 severely affected counties responding to the locust issue and continue to support the farmers and livestock keepers to continue their production activities so as to ensure that the critical lifeline of food. Key focus is ensuring:

  • That global supply chain is constant
  • Promoting large scale farming and use public land
  • Adopting new technologies like aqua culture and marine culture while it comes to fishing as opposed to traditional ways of fishing.
  • Lowering the prices of animal feeds and fertilizers
  1. Commitments

All Philanthropy and Business partners agreed to come together and work towards narrowing the gap of food and security issues during this period.

Ensure that the 5.8 million vulnerable Kenyans “Needy Population”, are cushioned during this pandemic, through individual and collective efforts guaranteeing access to food and clean water for all vulnerable communities

EAPN, KNNCI Members and Partners will continue to collect relevant and timely data on member activities and programs concerning aspects of market access and vulnerability of urban market traders. This will be shared with the Ministry to feed into the situation room at the MoALF for continued assessment and support to the necessary links between traders and farmers of food products for immediate consumption.

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REVIVING THE KNCCI AND NATION MEDIA GROUP WORKING PARTNERSHIP https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2020/02/14/reviving-the-kncci-and-nation-media-group-working-partnership/ https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2020/02/14/reviving-the-kncci-and-nation-media-group-working-partnership/#respond Fri, 14 Feb 2020 14:29:20 +0000 https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/?p=1187 Today KNCCI and Nation Media Group (NMG) held a joint discussion with an aim to revive their working relations and partnership. The meeting chaired by the KNCCI President, Mr. Richard Ngatia and NMG, Managing Director, News paper Division Mr.  Munywoki will lead to a signing of partnership agreement with the Nation Media group to support [...]

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Today KNCCI and Nation Media Group (NMG) held a joint discussion with an aim to revive their working relations and partnership.

The meeting chaired by the KNCCI President, Mr. Richard Ngatia and NMG, Managing Director, News paper Division Mr.  Munywoki will lead to a signing of partnership agreement with the Nation Media group to support and help bring to limelight the Chamber programs and activities.

Already the two parties have entered into a partnership to host the inaugural KNCCI/NMG SMEs Conference and Expo scheduled for 24th and 25th of February, 2020 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre.  This will be a platform to for SMEs to showcase their brands, product and services.

Among the topics discussed during this meeting included:

EXPO DUBAI 2020

Expo 2020 Dubai starts on October 20, 2020. It will feature hundreds of themed and interactive pavilions, as well as immersive cultural experiences and live entertainment.

Dubai 2020 Expo is themed ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’ and will focus on ‘Sustainability, Mobility and Opportunity’. “Kenya has been allocated its own pavilion at the expo and it is our duty now to ensure that we mobilize SMEs, investors and business community to participate and showcase their products and services”. Said Richard Ngatia, KNCCI President. He urged NMG to use this opportunity to showcase Kenya and what it can offer as a preferred destination for investment.

GREAT LAKES INVESTMENT AND TRADE CONFERENCE 2020 – GLITC

As the appointed Chairman of the Great lakes Region, Chamber president stated that the upcoming GLITC will focus on cross border trade and investment corridors with the private sector actors in the border regions as the prime participants. “I have been to Uganda, and will be proceeding to DRC to get the Great Lakes leaders endorse the conference”. Ngatia said.

Mr. Munywoki, NMG, Managing Director, News paper Division, lauded Mr. Ngatia on his appointment as the chair of GLITC and requested that all the Great Lakes region leaders be invited to the upcoming KNCCI/NMG SME Conference and Expo to increase on the awareness of the GLITC

ADOPT A COUNTY PROGRAM

Adopt a County is a pilot program by KNCCI and Homeboyz that will see the bringing together of SMEs players in one place and an incubation programs that will allow access to skills infrastructure, mentorship, supply and value chain, provide market linkages and financial support that will enable grow their businesses and products. “We would like to partner with NMG in such programs to ensure that SMEs challenges are addressed and are capacity built as they are the back bone of the economy”. Said Fatma Elmaawy, Chamber second Vice President.

The need to have a major global conversation about SMEs was also evident during the meeting.  This will ensure that a good SME ecosystem is created with a good SME data base and classification.

Angela Ndambuki, KNCCI CEO in her statement said that through this global conversation, it will enable the private sector players make SMEs investor ready by guiding them through the process.

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KNCCI – HOMEBOYZ TO PILOT SME HUB MASHINANI https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2020/02/12/kncci-homeboyz-to-pilot-sme-hub-mashinani/ https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2020/02/12/kncci-homeboyz-to-pilot-sme-hub-mashinani/#respond Wed, 12 Feb 2020 09:59:19 +0000 https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/?p=1184 The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry in partnership with Homeboyz will soon be piloting a project dubbed "SME Hub Mashinani" SME Hub Mashinani is KNCCI County Incubation programs that will allow access to skills infrastructure, mentorship, supply and value chain, provide market linkages and financial support that will enable grow their businesses and [...]

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The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry in partnership with Homeboyz will soon be piloting a project dubbed “SME Hub Mashinani”

SME Hub Mashinani is KNCCI County Incubation programs that will allow access to skills infrastructure, mentorship, supply and value chain, provide market linkages and financial support that will enable grow their businesses and products. 10 counties will be selected for the piloting.

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KNCCI PARTNERSHIP WITH FSD, BRAND KENYA AND RETAIL PAY AFRICA https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2020/02/07/kncci-partnership-with-fsd-brand-kenya-and-retail-pay-africa/ https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/2020/02/07/kncci-partnership-with-fsd-brand-kenya-and-retail-pay-africa/#respond Fri, 07 Feb 2020 11:42:24 +0000 https://www.kenyachamber.or.ke/?p=1176 KNCCI has entered into a consortium with Financial Sector Deepening (FSD), Brand Kenya and Retail Pay to implement the Trade Facilitation Project supported by the Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA). The project seeks to create market capacity and incentives to innovate trade solutions which deliver real value for the Kenyan economy, enterprises and households. The [...]

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KNCCI has entered into a consortium with Financial Sector Deepening (FSD), Brand Kenya and Retail Pay to implement the Trade Facilitation Project supported by the Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA). The project seeks to create market capacity and incentives to innovate trade solutions which deliver real value for the Kenyan economy, enterprises and households.

The project will be implemented through a three year Public Private Development Partnership (PPDP). KNCCI will undertake initial mapping exercise of traders for an online platform (Retail Pay) with the objective of producing a prototype map of potential participants on the trade platform complete with commodity details and a plan for on boarding them onto the platform

The intervention will begin with pilot field surveys/mapping exercises in targeted RetailPay areas in Nairobi and its environs where KNCCI’s members have strong presence with regard to supplier and retailer recruitment.

The objective of the mapping exercise is to identify characteristics of the traders that impact on their ability to actively engage on the trade platform and identify clear opportunities for linking them to the platform.

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