NAIROBI, Kenya, Jul 23 – The Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) has urged micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to embrace technology and innovation as critical tools for growth, competitiveness and resilience amid a rapidly evolving business environment.
Speaking during the Third Annual SME Conference, Awards and Exhibition, Mary Ngechu, KEPSA Director for SMEs and Startups and Managing Director of Plast Group, said businesses that fail to adapt to emerging technologies risk being left behind as artificial intelligence, digital transformation and shifting consumer preferences continue to reshape industries.
“The businesses that will drive tomorrow are those that embrace innovation, adapt quickly, leverage technology and continuously invest in their capabilities.”
“Being smart is about embracing innovation, digital technologies, data and new business models. Being resilient is about preparing for uncertainty, managing risk, diversifying markets and creating enterprises that can withstand shocks while continuing to grow.”
According to Ngechu, it is urgent for entrepreneurs to move beyond simply keeping their businesses afloat and instead position themselves for sustainable long-term growth.
She noted that MSMEs remain the backbone of Kenya’s economy, accounting for more than 95 percent of registered businesses and providing employment to about 85 percent of the country’s workforce, making their success central to the country’s economic transformation.
According to Ngechu, entrepreneurs are operating in an increasingly complex environment marked by rapid technological change, climate-related disruptions, evolving financing models and growing competition.
She said artificial intelligence is already transforming how businesses operate, while digital tools are opening new opportunities for market access, operational efficiency and customer engagement.
To help entrepreneurs navigate these changes, the two-day conference has been designed to provide practical business support through masterclasses, business clinics, networking sessions and exhibitions focused on digital transformation, artificial intelligence, financing, climate resilience and innovation.
Among the new initiatives unveiled this year is a digital exhibition catalogue aimed at giving participating businesses a permanent online presence beyond the conference, allowing potential investors, buyers and partners to continue engaging with exhibitors after the event.
The annual SME Conference, Awards and Exhibition brings together entrepreneurs, policymakers, financial institutions, development partners and private sector players to discuss practical solutions aimed at strengthening Kenya’s MSME ecosystem and improving access to markets, finance and business support services.
