Eldoret Strengthens Global Business Links as Over 100 Entrepreneurs Receive Digital Skills Training

 

By Wasike Elvis

 Eldoret City has taken another step toward positioning itself as a regional hub for innovation and enterprise development, after hosting an international digital skills training targeting youth and women entrepreneurs.

The high-impact training, held at Eka Hotel Eldoret, brought together more than 100 participants from across Uasin Gishu County. The initiative was organized through a partnership between the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) and the Vilnius Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Crafts, marking a growing collaboration between Kenya and Lithuania in enterprise development.

The training focused on equipping entrepreneurs with practical skills in digital marketing, e-commerce, export readiness, and international business development—areas increasingly seen as critical for competitiveness in a globalized economy.

Boosting Local Enterprise Through Global Partnerships

Speaking during the event, Willy Kenei, Chairman of KNCCI Uasin Gishu County, described the training as a transformative opportunity for the region.

“We are privileged as Eldoret and Uasin Gishu to benefit from this program. Lithuania is a global leader in fintech and digital innovation, and exposing our entrepreneurs to such expertise will significantly enhance their competitiveness,” he said.

Kenei noted that the training reflects KNCCI’s broader commitment to strengthening small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly by connecting them to international knowledge networks and market opportunities.

Focus on Women and Youth Empowerment

The program placed special emphasis on empowering women and young entrepreneurs, who form a significant portion of Kenya’s business community but often face barriers in accessing digital tools and global markets.

Zainabu  Mohamed, KNCCI National Director in charge of Women in Business, highlighted the urgency of digital adoption.

“Digital business is no longer optional—it is essential for survival and growth. Through our 47 chapters nationwide, we are ensuring that women and youth are equipped with the skills needed to thrive in today’s economy,” she said.

She added that the initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to promote inclusive economic growth, particularly during International Women’s Month, under the theme “Give to Gain.”

Participants were trained on how to leverage online platforms to expand their customer base, improve branding, and tap into cross-border trade opportunities.

Bilateral Cooperation Opens New Opportunities

The training also marked a milestone in Kenya-Lithuania business relations. Mara Aldona, Vice President of the Lithuanian chamber, revealed that the two organizations recently signed a memorandum of understanding to formalize their partnership.

“This project is just the beginning. In the coming weeks, we will host our first online bilateral meeting between Kenyan and Lithuanian businesswomen to explore partnerships, share experiences, and identify opportunities for collaboration,” she said.

The engagement is expected to extend beyond Lithuania to include broader Baltic markets, opening new export and investment pathways for Kenyan entrepreneurs.

Long-Term Capacity Building for SMEs

Project leader Dimantia Viljanskaite emphasized that the initiative is designed for long-term impact rather than one-off training.

“This project goes beyond classroom sessions. We will identify between 20 and 50 SMEs for personalized consultations, helping them understand how to export, digitize their operations, and scale their businesses internationally,” she explained.

The program is funded by the Lithuanian Development Cooperation Fund and includes the development of comprehensive methodological training materials. These resources will be distributed across KNCCI chapters to ensure continued learning and scalability.

Measurable Impact Already Achieved

According to Ken Mwenda, the collaboration has already yielded significant results. More than 478 SMEs across Kenya have been trained under the program so far.

“These businesses have gained skills in digital marketing, e-commerce, compliance, export readiness, and international partner search. We are also helping them navigate trade frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and AGOA,” Mwenda said.

He added that the initiative is anchored within KNCCI’s Chamber Business Academy, which offers short-term, industry-focused courses tailored to evolving market needs.

Positioning Eldoret as a Business and Innovation Hub

The choice of Eldoret as the host city reflects its growing reputation as an emerging economic and technological hub—often referred to as a “Silicon Savannah” outside Nairobi.

Local leaders expressed optimism that such international collaborations will accelerate the city’s development by fostering entrepreneurship, attracting investment, and building a digitally skilled workforce.

Participants also welcomed the training, noting that the knowledge gained would help them improve their businesses, reach new markets, and adapt to the rapidly changing digital economy.

Looking Ahead

As the program continues, stakeholders are optimistic about its potential to transform Kenya’s SME landscape. With ongoing mentorship, international linkages, and access to practical tools, entrepreneurs are expected to become more competitive both locally and globally.

The partnership between KNCCI and the Vilnius Chamber signals a broader trend of cross-border collaboration aimed at empowering SMEs—an essential driver of economic growth, job creation, and innovation in Kenya.

With plans for continued training, business matchmaking, and knowledge sharing, the initiative is set to leave a lasting impact on the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.