The synergy between Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and the e-commerce sector has been identified as key to driving Kenya's economic growth.
This was highlighted during a recent forum reviewing the Kenya E-commerce Strategy launched in December 2023.
Kenya’s MSME sector is vibrant, with over 7.4 million MSMEs contributing about 40 percent of the country’s GDP.
These enterprises span various sectors, including farming, agribusiness, logistics, general trade, and services, primarily led by young entrepreneurs.
To empower MSMEs, BrighterMonday Kenya launched the e-Biz Kwa Vijana program in May 2023, aiming to train 1,000 MSMEs in e-commerce and digital marketing.
Concluding in June 2024, the program trained over 2,000 beneficiaries and onboarded 632 MSMEs onto online trading platforms.
Victor Waliaula, an entrepreneur from Nairobi, saw a 30 percent revenue increase after joining the program.
He highlighted how digital training transformed his business, enabling him to create online advertisements and product promotions.
Similarly, Lilian Wairimu from Jegos Enterprises reported a 50 percent sales revenue rise due to her new online presence.
Funded by USAID through the e-Trade Alliance, the program also supported women entrepreneurs and people with disabilities.
According to BrighterMonday Kenya CEO Chris Otundo, the program bridges the talent gap in Africa and unlocks economic opportunities for young entrepreneurs and MSMEs.
“We recognize and acknowledge the potential of e-commerce to help revolutionize the local entrepreneurial landscape by equipping young people like Victor and Lilian with the necessary knowledge and tools to expand their market opportunities,” said Otundo.
Acting Secretary in the State Department for Trade, Michael Mandu, stated that the Kenya National E-commerce Strategy aims to create an environment where businesses can thrive, entrepreneurs can innovate, and every citizen can participate in the digital economy.
According to Mandu, Kenya has witnessed steady growth in e-commerce in recent years and is currently established as a leader in digital trade within the African continent and globally, with combined revenues in the sector projected to grow to $2.928 trillion in 2023.
“A large share of this revenue is attributable to MSMEs and youth-run enterprises that provide jobs and sustainable livelihoods while also nurturing digital talents in the country,” said Mandu.
He added that the Kenya National E-commerce Strategy is not just a policy document but one aimed at creating an environment where businesses can thrive and entrepreneurs can innovate.