Kenya has embarked on a transformative initiative by channelling Sh1.3 billion in World Bank-backed grants to bolster 150 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the nation.

The Trade and Industry PS Juma Mukhwana announced this landmark development in Nairobi, underlining the government's commitment to fortify the industrial landscape.

"The grants are intended to assist the beneficiary SMEs to improve their competitiveness as part of plans to transform Kenya’s industrial sector," affirmed Mukhwana, shedding light on the overarching objective behind this financial injection.

The funds, initially acquired as a loan from the World Bank, will be disbursed to SMEs as grants, representing a strategic manoeuvre by the Kenyan government.

Emphasizing the sectors earmarked for support, Mukhwana highlighted the agro-processing, health, and pharmaceutical domains as the primary beneficiaries.

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These sectors, he noted, hold significant potential for expansion, thereby playing a pivotal role in generating employment opportunities for the Kenyan populace.

The allocation of funds, according to Mukhwana, aligns with a broader vision to equip Kenya's SMEs with the necessary tools to embrace cutting-edge technologies.

This forward-looking approach aims to position these enterprises as regional contenders, fostering innovation and adaptability within the local industrial ecosystem.

Beyond technological integration, Mukhwana underscored the multifaceted nature of financial assistance.

The grants will not only facilitate business development but also serve as a catalyst for the acquisition of crucial managerial and technical skills.

This dual-pronged strategy is poised to enhance the overall resilience and sustainability of the supported SMEs.

As Kenya takes strides towards economic revitalization, the injection of World Bank-funded grants stands as a testament to the government's commitment to fostering a dynamic and competitive industrial sector.

The impact of this initiative is expected to reverberate through the agro-processing, health, and pharmaceutical sectors, ultimately catalyzing broader economic growth and stability in the region.