The government has announced swift and strategic measures to safeguard micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from economic disruption during civil protests. Speaking at a press briefing, Principal Secretary for MSME Development, Susan Mang’eni, emphasized the need to protect livelihoods and businesses that form the backbone of Kenya’s economy.
“We need a new demonstration format that doesn’t put the backbone of our economy at risk,” she said, underscoring the severe impact recent protests have had on MSMEs.
In response to the unrest that occurred on June 25, 2025 affecting 24 counties and resulting in widespread destruction and business closures the State Department has formed a rapid response assessment team to document affected enterprises. PS Mang’eni noted that the country loses approximately Ksh. 3 billion daily during such protests, with MSMEs absorbing most of the losses.
The government will fast-track business registration and license renewals, and is collaborating with insurance firms to expedite claims processing and promote awareness on insurance uptake among small businesses. A riot risk response mechanism is also being considered to help MSMEs recover from political and climate-induced disasters.
To enhance resilience, the government is pushing for accelerated adoption of digital payment systems, e-commerce platforms, and digital marketplaces, ensuring continued operations even in times of crisis.
PS Mang’eni reaffirmed the government’s dedication to growing the MSME sector under the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), calling on county governments, civil society, development partners, and the private sector to collaborate in building a robust and inclusive MSME ecosystem.
Recognizing the constitutional right to protest, she urged for balanced approaches that preserve both civil liberties and economic rights. “Economic rights are also human rights,” she stated.
The PS highlighted ongoing support through the Hustler Fund’s Credit Repair Program, which has disbursed over Ksh. 71 billion to more than 25 million Kenyans, with 400,000 qualifying for bridge loans of up to Ksh. 150,000.
She invited stakeholders to join the World MSME Day celebrations on June 27, 2025, at KICC, Nairobi, urging unity in rebuilding Kenya’s entrepreneurial sector. “Kenya’s future depends on the survival and success of its small enterprises,” she concluded.
