World Bank Approves Sh.5 Billion to Boost Kenya’s SMEs

Entrepreneurs in Kenya are set to benefit from 5 Billion shillings from the World Bank meant to increase scale innovation and productivity amongst Kenya’s enterprises.

Through the World Bank funding from the International Development Association (IDA) credit, Kenya Industry and Entrepreneurship project (KIEP) is expected to benefit some 33,050 individuals and 2,393 firms.

It will support the ambitious development targets outlined in Kenya’s Big Four development agenda and Vision 2030 that require significant growth in private sector jobs and overall productivity.

The Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Cooperatives, through the Kenya Industrial Transformation Program, prioritize technology and innovation as the cornerstone for national industrial development and the role that private sector firms play in driving Kenya’s industrialization.

World Bank Country Director for Kenya Diarietou Gaye said that they are committed to supporting Kenya in creating employment and business opportunities as part of the county’s wider strategy to fast-track economic growth. 

“While Kenya remains a top innovation leader in Africa, it still ranks 80th out of 127 countries in the 2017 Global Innovation Index and we are partnering with Kenya as it works to improve its human capital, technology, and knowledge outputs,” added Diarietou Gaye.

Currently, Kenya lacks the adequate skills that can produce a solid pool of internationally competitive, technology-enabled businesses. SMEs, which are key drivers of the economy, face difficulties in improving their productivity due to poor managerial practices and information failures around how to upgrade.

The country also has limited contact between traditional industry and technology-enabled startups; a missed opportunity for both sides.

Kenya’s other challenge includes limited connections to networks of international mentors, angel investors, and venture capitalists all of which make it difficult for local startups and SMEs to grow and compete internationally. For Kenyan women, entrepreneurs, particularly those who own startups and SMEs; all these challenges are even more pronounced.

“In today’s fast-paced, globalized economy, start-up driven innovation is key for economic development as it creates new jobs for the growing youth demographic,” said Elena Gasol Ramos, Senior Private Sector Specialist, and Task Team Leader.

Elena Gasol Ramos noted that through strengthening technology incubators and accelerators, the Kenya Industry and Entrepreneurship Project will directly benefit 250 SMEs, 640 students, 15 corporates, 162 startups, 30 technology hubs and 7 technology boot camp providers.

The World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), established in 1960, helps the world’s poorest countries by providing grants and low to zero-interest loans for projects and programs that boost economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve poor people’s lives.