The Micro and Small Enterprises
Authority (MSEA) has concluded the roll out the Cohort 1 Business Development
Services (BDS) Classroom Training under Component 2 of the Kenya Jobs and
Economic Transformation (KJET) Project
Speaking during a monitoring exercise of the training in Kiambu and Kajiado counties,
the Principal Secretary State Department for MSMEs Development Hon. Susan
Mang’eni, highlighted the transformational nature of the KJET cluster-based model.
She noted that many MSMEs struggle to grow due to 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.
According to the PS the focus is no longer on isolated interventions, but on coordinated, structured, and high impact support that strengthens entire clusters and value chains. 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.”
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.
Through structured Business Development Services training and targeted co-investment support, the component is designed to stimulate
enterprise development, improve market access, and support the creation and improvement of jobs.
The 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. By preparing MSMEs to
access new opportunities and grow sustainably, the programme contributes directly
to Kenya’s broader economic transformation goals. The sessions feature hands-on
exercises, practical case studies, and interactive group work led by experienced
facilitators.
The 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.
MSEA encourages eligible cooperatives, associations, and cluster-based MSMEs to
apply for Cohort 2 of the BDS Training, which is currently open until 31 December
2025. Interested clusters are advised to apply early to benefit from this support
offered Component 2 of the KJET Project via https://kjet.msea.go.ke/
