The Principal Secretary for MSMEs Development Susan Mang’eni has called on the County governments and academia to work together and support MSMEs through friendly policies, streamlined licensing, and infrastructure development. MSMEs Connect is a significant step in the government’s efforts to strengthen the micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) sector and recognizes the critical role of MSMEs in Kenya’s economic transformation and enhance economic participation at the grassroots level by addressing key challenges faced by MSMEs. "For the first time in Kenya’s history, a dedicated Ministry for MSMEs Development has been established under the leadership of President William Ruto, providing an institutional framework to drive the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). " The MSMEs Connect platform brings together policymakers, industry leaders, financial institutions, and entrepreneurs to: Strengthen policies, regulations, and legal frameworks supporting MSMEs,implement targeted interventions for MSME development,enhance financial inclusion and market access through supply chain integration,improve productivity and competitiveness of small enterprises and promote partnerships and networking within the MSME ecosystem. Mangeni recognized key government programs supporting MSMEs, including Kenya Industrial Estate, the UWEZO Fund, and the Hustler Fund. Additionally she highlighted ongoing regulatory reforms to decriminalize informal work and recognize MSMEs as key contributors to economic growth. With MSMEs Connect, Kenya is laying the groundwork for a thriving, inclusive, and globally competitive MSME sector, unlocking new opportunities for small businesses across the country. This initiative will be rolled out in all 47 counties, providing MSMEs with a chance to dialogue with key stakeholders and showcase their products and innovations.