Kakamega Hosts Trade Expo to Empower MSMEs and Strengthen Market Linkages

By Hilda Atika

A Trade Expo has been officially inaugurated in Kakamega, providing a significant platform for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to showcase their products, engage with corporates, and expand their market reach.

The Trade Expo, which runs from March 27th to 29th, has already seen a large turnout, with exhibitors from various sectors, including solar energy, finance, and MSMEs.

During the official opening of the Expo at the Golf Hotel, Kakamega County Chief Officer for Trade, Faith Gitira, urged both residents and visitors from outside the county to attend, exchange ideas, and explore the exhibits on display.

Gitira shared that the County Government has partnered with the Trade Expo to support local entrepreneurs by providing them with an opportunity to exhibit their products. She also highlighted that Governor Fernandes Barasa has been instrumental in supporting MSMEs through grants and trade loans.

“This Expo is for you. We look forward to serving you better,” Gitira remarked, encouraging the public to attend the event and engage with the diverse offerings.

Kholera Ward MCA Karim Osama, who also serves as the Vice-Chair of Trade in the County Assembly, expressed his appreciation for the Expo and urged local traders to visit the exhibition, which will continue until Saturday. Osama commended the laws enacted by the County Assembly to support business growth, assuring traders that they would be provided with the necessary resources.

“We are committed to ensuring that traders have all they need. We invite them to come and witness the impact of these efforts,” said Osama.

Donald Okumu, MCA for Koyonzo Ward and a committee member of the trade, further emphasised the County Assembly’s commitment to promoting MSMEs. He noted that policies have been implemented to support small-scale traders, with exhibitions like this one serving as a crucial tool for business promotion.

“We encourage people to come forward and showcase their talents in business. The County Assembly is fully supportive of these exhibitions,” Okumu stated, adding that the Expo offers an excellent opportunity for grassroots entrepreneurs to gain exposure.