KNCCI Uasin Gishu Hosts Lithuanian Delegation Ahead of Major MSME Training Initiative

By Wasike Elvis

The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Uasin Gishu chapter has intensified efforts to boost enterprise development after hosting an international delegation in Eldoret ahead of a high-impact training program for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

The courtesy visit, held on the evening of March 25, 2026, brought together key stakeholders under the Skills for Women and Youth Programme, laying the groundwork for a full-day training session scheduled to equip local entrepreneurs with critical business and digital skills.

The visiting delegation was led by Zainab Mohammed, Chair of the Women in Business initiative, and included representatives from the Vilnius Chamber of Commerce Industry and Crafts (VCCIC), headed by its Vice President L Aldonė. The team was received by KNCCI Uasin Gishu Chair Willy Kenei alongside members of the county chamber’s board.

The meeting focused on strengthening the capacity of MSMEs in Uasin Gishu County through digital transformation, innovation, and international collaboration. Participants underscored the urgent need for small businesses to adopt modern digital tools in order to remain competitive in an increasingly globalized and technology-driven economy.

Key discussions centered on practical ways to support entrepreneurs in integrating digital solutions into their operations, including e-commerce platforms, digital marketing strategies, financial technologies, and data-driven decision-making. Stakeholders noted that many MSMEs still face barriers in accessing and effectively utilizing such tools, limiting their growth potential.

“This engagement is about creating real opportunities for our entrepreneurs, especially women and youth, to scale their businesses and compete beyond our borders,” one official said during the meeting.

Beyond digital transformation, the talks explored avenues for building sustainable partnerships between business communities in Uasin Gishu and Lithuania. The collaboration is expected to facilitate knowledge exchange, joint initiatives, and possible trade linkages between the two regions.

Uasin Gishu County’s strong agricultural base emerged as a focal point of discussion, with participants highlighting export potential in high-value products such as flowers, tea, and coffee. These sectors, officials noted, could benefit significantly from improved access to European markets through structured partnerships.

On the other hand, Lithuania was presented as a strategic partner in providing advanced digital solutions, innovation support, and access to markets in the Baltic region. The Vilnius Chamber of Commerce Industry and Crafts delegation expressed interest in fostering closer ties that would enable businesses from both regions to explore mutual growth opportunities.

KNCCI Uasin Gishu Chair Willy Kenei welcomed the partnership, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in unlocking the potential of local enterprises.

“We are keen on creating linkages that not only empower our MSMEs but also position Uasin Gishu as a hub for trade and investment,” he said, adding that exposure to global markets and best practices is key to sustainable business growth.

The upcoming training is expected to bring together a wide range of MSMEs from across the county, with a special focus on women- and youth-led enterprises. Organizers say the program will provide hands-on training in business management, digital adoption, market access, and financial literacy.

Zainab Mohammed noted that empowering MSMEs is central to driving inclusive economic growth, particularly in regions with high entrepreneurial activity such as Uasin Gishu. She emphasized that the Skills for Women and Youth Programme is designed to bridge gaps in skills, access, and opportunity.

Participants also highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between public and private sector actors, development partners, and international institutions in supporting MSME growth.

The visit marks a significant step in KNCCI’s broader strategy to strengthen local enterprises through targeted interventions and global partnerships. Officials believe such initiatives will not only enhance the resilience and competitiveness of MSMEs but also contribute to job creation and economic development in the region.

As Eldoret continues to position itself as a key commercial and agricultural hub, stakeholders say building international linkages will be critical in ensuring that local businesses are fully integrated into regional and global value chains.

The collaboration between KNCCI Uasin Gishu and the Lithuanian delegation is expected to yield long-term benefits, paving the way for sustained engagement, increased trade, and expanded opportunities for entrepreneurs in both regions.