Small-scale entrepreneurs are calling on President William Ruto to ban the importation of basic goods such as furniture and toothpicks, arguing that it undermines local craftsmanship and the growth of homegrown industries.
Speaking during the East Africa Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Trade Fair in Nairobi, leaders from the Small Traders Association accused the government of neglecting the informal sector despite its crucial role in Kenya’s economy.
Confederation of Micro and Small Enterprises (CMSE) Kenya Chapter National Chairman, John Kihiu, noted that while President Ruto had fulfilled his promise to create a dedicated ministry for small businesses, the sector still struggles to make its voice heard in policy discussions.
“We urge the government not to forget us. Kenya cannot achieve top economic status while sidelining small traders who make up 80 per cent of the workforce and contribute nearly 40 per cent of the GDP,” said Kihiu.
He added that the sector is ready to support government efforts to revive cottage industries and create employment opportunities, but current policies—such as heavy taxation on raw materials, multiple business licences, and the importation of basic commodities—are stifling progress.
Kihiu emphasised that MSMEs play a vital role in addressing unemployment, particularly among the youth, and serve as a key source of income for rural farmers and artisans.
The association welcomed the Kenya Revenue Authority’s decision to set up a special department for micro and small taxpayers, terming it a step in the right direction.
National Juakali Federation Treasurer, Munyiri Mutitu, echoed Kihiu’s sentiments, urging the government to reserve a percentage of public procurement for local artisans.
He criticised the government for importing low-quality furniture from China while local workshops have quality products lying unsold. “The Juakali sector has long been ignored despite being the backbone of our economy. We rescued this country during the 1990s forex crisis, yet we’re excluded from the president’s economic council,” said Mutitu.
He further questioned the choice of Uhuru Gardens as the venue for the trade fair, arguing that many small traders could not afford to travel from places such as Kamukunji.
Kenya has over 7.4 million MSMEs, according to the World Bank, contributing significantly to employment and economic growth but still struggling with limited access to financing, markets, and supportive policies.
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Cooperatives and MSMEs Development Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya, who attended the forum, said the meeting seeks to accelerate the East African Community (EAC) Market Protocol, which would enable freer movement of entrepreneurs and goods across member states.
“This will strengthen regional integration, reduce trade barriers, and open up new opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),” said Oparanya.
However, he acknowledged that the region still faces obstacles such as cumbersome customs procedures, delays at weighbridges, and inconsistent regulations that raise the cost of doing business.
The 25th edition of the MSME Trade Fair brings together over 3,000 exhibitors from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, the DRC, and Somalia, showcasing innovation, culture, and enterprise from across the region.
