The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KNCCI) will support businessmen and women in Elgeyo Marakwet County access market and inject capital to existing business.
KNCCI president Dr. Erick Ruto said the chambers is on a transformation agenda to empower small-scale businesses to thrive and do business in a wealthy nation.
Speaking during a visit to several businesses in Iten, Dr. Ruto reiterated that KNCCI will empower traders in the county by linking them to international markets and supporting them to expand their businesses.
“We already have a market for one of our members who is producing toilet papers. The market is so huge that it requires about five tonnes of tissue papers at ago,” he said adding that, “We hope this will be met.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Ruto commended the county for what he termed as ‘friendly’ business partner for supporting local businesses.
Philomena Tanui, CEO of Leafy Plus Tissue Company, expressed gratitude to the chambers, the commitment to providing market linkages, low-interest capital loans.
In collaboration with the department of trade, the chamber will stage an international exhibition later in the year, where local businesses will have an opportunity to showcase their products.
In addition, Elgeyo Marakwet Trade County Executive Committee Member (CECM) Robert Kangogo acknowledged that small industries play a vital role in creating employment opportunities with relatively lower capital investments.
To date, 178 cottage industries have been established and registered, and 650 entrepreneurs have been trained across the county.
“Our county is always ready to collaborate in protecting and advancing the interests of the business community while advocating for a favourable environment for commerce, trade, and investment,” stated Kangogo.
