[PHOTOS] Ruto presides over 25th East African Community SME Trade fair

Ruto said he recognises that the sector drives the economy, creates jobs, and builds wealth for Kenyans.

by PERPETUA ETYANG

In-pictures11 November 2025 - 19:20

In Summary

The President said Kenya welcome the International Trade Organisation’s decision to set up its regional hub in Nairobi, affirming Kenya’s leadership in trade and investment.
The President said the Hustler Fund has disbursed over Sh80 billion to 26.7 million people since 2022, offering dignified credit to those previously excluded from formal finance.

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President William Ruto during the 25th East African Community (EAC) Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Trade Fair at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi County on November 11, 2025 / PCS

President William Ruto on Tuesday presided over the 25th East African Community (EAC) Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Trade Fair at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi County.

The President said Kenya welcomes the International Trade Organisation’s decision to set up its regional hub in Nairobi, affirming Kenya’s leadership in trade and investment.

Ruto said he recognises that the sector drives the economy, creates jobs, and builds wealth for Kenyans.

“We are also investing in value addition and agro-processing through County Aggregation and Industrial Parks in all 47 counties and developing special economic zones in Busia-Nasewa, Naivasha, Eldoret, Kirinyaga, and Dongo Kundu to attract investment and boost industrialisation,” the President said.

“We are supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises by expanding access to affordable credit and financing.”

The President said the Hustler Fund has disbursed over Sh80 billion to 26.7 million people since 2022, offering dignified credit to those previously excluded from formal finance.

He said through the NYOTA programme, the government is empowering 110,000 young entrepreneurs with training, mentorship, and start-up grants to drive innovation and job creation.