By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Kenya, 5 June 2026 - Isiolo County has intensified efforts to support small businesses after hosting the sixth edition of the Kenya Public-Private Sector MSMEs Dialogue, commonly known as the MSME Connect Forum, bringing together entrepreneurs, government agencies, financial institutions and development partners to explore opportunities for enterprise growth.
The forum attracted hundreds of business owners from across the county and focused on addressing challenges facing Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), including limited access to financing, markets and business development services.
Speaking during the event, Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA) Chief Executive Officer Henry Rithaa, who represented Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs Development Wycliffe Oparanya, commended local entrepreneurs for the quality and diversity of products showcased during the exhibition.
Mr Rithaa urged traders and manufacturers to leverage the networking opportunities and support services available through partnerships between the public and private sectors.
"The quality of products displayed here demonstrates the immense potential of local enterprises. Entrepreneurs should take advantage of the opportunities created through such forums to expand their businesses and access new markets," he said.
The event was attended by Isiolo Deputy Governor James Lowasa, who represented Governor Abdi Ibrahim Hassan, County Commissioner Mwachaunga Chaunga, Senior MSMEs Advisor Rose Mwaura, and representatives from corporate institutions and development organisations.
In his keynote address, Dr Lowasa reaffirmed the county government's commitment to strengthening the MSME sector, describing small businesses as a critical pillar of the local economy.
"MSMEs are the backbone of our local economy. Through partnerships and targeted support, we will continue creating opportunities that help our entrepreneurs grow and succeed," he said.
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A major attraction at the forum was an exhibition featuring locally produced goods and innovations by traders, artisans and manufacturers from across Isiolo. Delegates toured the exhibition grounds and interacted with exhibitors, highlighting the growing entrepreneurial activity in the county.
The forum also featured panel discussions on business growth strategies and access to credit, with participants exploring ways to overcome long-standing barriers that have limited the expansion of small enterprises in Northern Kenya.
Entrepreneurs additionally attended a financial literacy masterclass that focused on bookkeeping, budgeting, investment planning and navigating formal financial systems.
County officials said the forum forms part of broader efforts to create a more supportive business environment and position MSMEs as key drivers of job creation, sustainable livelihoods and economic transformation in Isiolo and the wider northern Kenya region.
The county government said continued collaboration between government agencies, financiers and the private sector will be crucial in unlocking the full potential of local enterprises and accelerating inclusive economic growth.