President William Ruto has underscored the critical role of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in shaping Kenya’s economic and social future, calling them the foundation upon which national progress must be built.
Speaking during the World MSME Day celebrations at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, the President noted that small businesses are not only commercial ventures, but also spaces of innovation, dignity, and community upliftment.
“Small enterprises are the engines of our economic growth. They not only drive innovation, but also support livelihoods,” President Ruto said. “They are the starting point of transformation for millions of Kenyans.”
With over 15 million Kenyans directly or indirectly depending on the MSME sector, the government’s agenda, he said, is to create an environment where these businesses can thrive—not just survive.
This includes investment in modern infrastructure, pro-business policies, and enhanced access to affordable credit.
The President emphasized that empowering MSMEs means unlocking job opportunities for the youth, boosting incomes for women, and stimulating grassroots economies.
But even as he championed the spirit of enterprise, Ruto condemned recent unrest that saw businesses vandalized under the guise of protest. He drew a clear line between legitimate civic action and criminal destruction.
“We must protect the dreams of honest, hardworking Kenyans. For the criminal elements bent on destruction of lives and businesses, we are unequivocal in our determination to deal with the thuggery they have disguised as peaceful protest,” he said.
