More than 100 Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Thika came together for the Britam Biashara Network forum, a nationwide engagement aimed at helping entrepreneurs gain practical knowledge on how to survive tough economic times, identify growth opportunities, and build stronger businesses.
Under the theme, “Unlocking the Potential and Growth of SMEs in Kenya: Profitability under Siege,” the roundtable featured entrepreneurs, businesses from various industries, financial analysts, and partners such as KNCCI and HFC Limited to discuss the dynamic business environment and how collaborations can help improve the SME ecosystem in Kenya.
The panel discussion centered on the dynamic business environment and the need for collaboration in the development of the Kenyan SME sector.
During the panel, Britam Chief Operating Officer Leonard Chirchir said SMEs continue to be critical in propelling the nation’s economy.
“Thika is built on the resilience, determination, and innovation of hardworking entrepreneurs who wake up every day to create jobs, grow industries, and keep our economy moving. At Britam, we are proud to walk this journey with SMEs by providing solutions that not only protect their businesses today, but also secure a better tomorrow for generations to come,’ said Chirchir.
The networking session came at an opportune moment as Kenya is home to more than 7.4 million Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), according to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS).
The sector employs over 14.9 million people, contributes between 30 and 34 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and makes up more than 90 per cent of private businesses in the country.
Chief Guest and Savannah Mabati Ltd CEO James Muriithi encouraged business owners to remain flexible and open to change despite the current economic pressure.
“Profits may be under pressure, but opportunity is not lost. The businesses that will define Kenya’s future are those willing to adapt, invest in relationships, embrace technology, and remain consistent even in difficult seasons. SMEs are not small players in the economy; they are the engine that powers Kenya’s growth story,” said Muriithi.
The networking session was held in Thika, a town known for its strong agricultural and industrial activities, its close proximity to Nairobi, and a business culture that continues to support SME growth and innovation.
The Thika forum is part of Britam’s wider nationwide programme aimed at supporting entrepreneurs through networking, knowledge-sharing, and strategic partnerships.
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