Nairobi, Kenya – The Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA) has launched the Cohort 1 Business Development Services (BDS) Classroom Training under Component 2 of the Kenya Jobs and Economic Transformation (KJET) Project, marking a major step toward strengthening the competitiveness of MSME clusters across the country.
The programme, which officially kicked off on 10 November 2025 across ten counties, will be rolled out progressively to all 47 counties over the next five weeks. It targets the 94 MSME clusters selected under Cohort 1 of the project.
Component 2 of the KJET Project focuses on boosting the productivity and growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises operating within ten priority value chains identified under the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). These include Edible Oils, Construction Materials, Textiles, Rice, Tea, Coffee, Dairy, Leather, the Blue Economy, and Minerals.
According to MSEA, the initiative combines structured Business Development Services (BDS) training with targeted co-investment support to drive enterprise development, enhance market access, and create jobs in line with the government’s economic transformation goals.
The nationwide classroom sessions draw from a comprehensive 12-module curriculum designed to equip MSME clusters with practical skills to improve productivity, strengthen operations, and build long-term competitiveness. Participants engage in hands-on exercises, real-world case studies, and interactive group activities facilitated by experienced trainers.
Speaking during the launch of the programme in Isiolo County, MSEA Director General Henry Rithaa said the initiative represents a significant shift in how MSMEs are supported in Kenya.
“This training marks a pivotal shift in how MSMEs are supported in Kenya. For the first time, clusters across all counties are receiving structured, practical, and market-driven skills that directly address the gaps limiting their growth. Our goal is simple — to enhance productivity, unlock new markets, and position Kenyan enterprises to compete regionally and globally,” Rithaa said.
He further noted that the programme goes beyond classroom learning. Once the training phase concludes, clusters will transition into a three-month mentorship period, during which they will receive tailored, in-person support aimed at helping them apply the lessons learned, refine their operations, and strengthen business performance.
The BDS initiative is expected to play a crucial role in preparing Kenya’s MSMEs to access new opportunities, scale sustainably, and contribute meaningfully to the broader national economic transformation agenda.
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