*Empowering Enterprises at the Blue Frontier: State Department for MSMEs at Madaraka Day 2025 Thematic Week in Homa Bay* As Kenya prepares to mark its 62nd Madaraka Day under the theme “Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs,” the State Department for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (MSMEs) is playing a pivotal role in supporting Kenya’s MSME sector to tap into the blue economy. Held at Tom Mboya University in Homa Bay County, the week-long Madaraka Day thematic event themed “Our Water, Our Wealth” has gathered government officials, private sector players, fisherfolk, youth groups, and community organizations to engage in transformative dialogues and exhibitions that explore sustainable utilization of Kenya’s aquatic resources. Speaking at the official opening of Madaraka Day thematic week, Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, Hassan Joho, has called for a paradigm shift in the blue economy. “For us, our fish is our blue gold, and because we are dealing with gold, lives must transform. Wealth must be created. Post-harvest losses must end. Enterprises in the blue economy that are largely MSMEs are key to unlocking this promise.” Through dedicated sessions and interactive exhibitions, the department showcased how MSMEs are integral to the aquatic value chain from fish processing, packaging, cold storage, and logistics to boat making, tourism services, and artisanal crafts from marine materials. “The blue economy is not just about fish. It is about the people, for the people, with the people,” noted Millicent Odhiambo Mbita Member of Parliament, calling on the key players in the blue economy to see the lake beyond fishing but as a gateway to prosperity.” Through our agencies, (MSEA, Financial Inclusion Fund, Uwezo Fund and Kenya Industrial estates), the State Department is empowering local businesses with access to finance, technical training, market linkages, and digital tools that enhance competitiveness and sustainability in the blue economy sector. Homa Bay, nestled on the shores of Lake Victoria, is a natural hub for the blue economy. The county supports over 800,000 livelihoods in the fisheries sector and is ripe for MSME-led innovation. Governor Gladys Wanga emphasized the need for inclusive conversations that translate policy into impact: “Every discussion must make sense to our BMUs, our fisherfolk, and the general population. We must leave here with solutions, from secure fishing zones to expanded opportunities along the blue economy value chain.” From youth-owned fish drying ventures using solar technology to women-led aquaculture farms and lake-based ecotourism startups, MSMEs are emerging as engines of local development. As Kenya looks to scale up the maritime sector’s contribution to GDP from 2.5% to 10%, MSMEs will be at the heart of this growth trajectory. The State Department for MSMEs is ensuring that small businesses are not left behind. The 2025 Madaraka day is a call to action for a blue economy powered by MSMEs innovative, resilient, and readiness to lead Kenya into a sustainable and inclusive future.