The Small Business Awards is a special event that recognizes and celebrates the achievements of small businesses in Kenya, particularly those owned by women, youth, and persons with disabilities. These businesses have not only shown exceptional performance but have also made a significant impact on their communities. The awards also acknowledge organizations that have played a vital role in supporting these small businesses to thrive.
The Small Business Awards is an initiative of Biashara Africa, a member of the United Nations Global Compact. This organization comprises women and youth-owned small businesses dedicated to promoting digital and financial inclusion. Their ultimate aim is to empower and accelerate the growth of small businesses, thereby creating sustainable livelihoods and job opportunities.
Governor Johnson Sakaja emphasized the significance of the “Most Supportive County” category, which Nairobi City County received. This award reflects the outstanding initiatives, programs, and policies that Nairobi City County has implemented to empower and uplift small businesses and startups.
Victor Otieno, the Chief Officer for Digital Economy and Startups, outlined the sector’s plans to support the digitization of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly those in informal manufacturing. These plans involve innovative approaches like local and export market aggregations and decentralized manufacturing, in collaboration with various partners such as the Kenya National Federation of Jua Kali Associations (KNFJKA), the International Labor Organization (ILO), and Biashara Africa, among others.
The event was attended by Elizabeth Ndung’u, the Director for e-learning, as well as representatives from Equity Bank, Deloitte, the Hustler Fund Secretariat, the Global Compact, and SMEs from more than 30 counties, among others.
