Cohort one comprising of 94 groups conclude business skilling training
The Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA) has concluded the roll out of the Cohort 1 Business Development Services (BDS) Training under the Kenya Jobs and Economic Transformation (KJET) Project, which focuses on enhancing small traders’ competitiveness.
The training which officially began on 10th November 2025, has been implemented in all 47 counties over the last 5 weeks, reaching the 94 clusters selected for the first cohort.
Component 2 of the KJET project aims to strengthen the productivity and growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) clusters operating within the priority value chains identified under the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda; Edible Oils, Construction Materials, Textiles, Rice, Tea, Coffee, Dairy, Leather, the Blue Economy, and Minerals.
The component is designed to stimulate enterprise development, improve market access, and support the creation and improvement of jobs through structured business development services training and targeted co-investment support, according to government lol planners.
“This nationwide training has equipped selected MSME clusters with practical business skills drawn from a rich 12-module curriculum that enhance enterprise performance, increase productivity, and build long-term competitiveness,” Principal Secretary State Department for MSMEs Development Susan Ms Mang’eni says.
She adds that by preparing MSMEs to access new opportunities and grow sustainably, the programme contributes directly to Kenya’s broader economic transformation goals.
Speaking during a monitoring exercise of the training in Kiambu and Kajiado counties, the PS highlighted the transformational nature of the KJET cluster-based model.
She noted that many MSMEs struggle to grow as a result of operating individually and lacking the scale required to negotiate competitively, adopt technology or access finance.
“The KJET Project is redefining how Kenya supports its micro and small enterprises. Our focus is no longer on isolated interventions, but on coordinated, structured, and
high-impact support that strengthens entire clusters and value chains,” Mang’eni,” noted.
She added: “Through this BDS programme, we are equipping MSMEs with the tools they need to improve productivity, formalize operations, access new markets, and build sustainable businesses,
“These trainings are not an end in themselves, they are the foundation on
which we will scale Kenya’s competitiveness, job creation, and inclusive economic growth under the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda.”
With the completion of the classroom phase, all 94 clusters will proceed to a three-month mentorship phase, where each group will receive tailored, in-person support to help them apply the lessons learned, refine operations, and strengthen business performance.
The sessions feature hands-on exercises, practical case studies, and interactive group work led by experienced facilitators.
