The fast-changing digital landscape in Kenya is shaping the way different businesses operate. It is influencing more opportunities for growth for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by providing a platform for quick engagements, enhanced markets, and better collaborations. Thus, there is an ongoing need to harness the power of the digital landscape through training, capacity-building sessions, and practical lessons for the benefit of MSMEs.
The International Trade Centre (ITC) in collaboration with the USAID Strategic Partnership Program, organized a two-day Training of Trainers (ToT) session for its county officials and other partners (KEPROBA, MSEA, KIE, and KEPSA) at Strathmore Business School (SBS). The training introduced the participants to key aspects of e-commerce such as website development, digital marketing strategies and navigating security concerns online. The ToTs will further train more than 100 MSMEs in their counties of operation. By imparting such knowledge, MSMEs can effectively navigate the complexities of the digital marketplace and capitalize on its vast opportunities.
E-commerce offers MSMEs access to global markets and avenues for expansion. Nevertheless, despite its potential benefits, e-commerce often exposes MSMEs to certain challenges including technological barriers and logistical complexities. To address these challenges, e-commerce training programs such as the one carried out by ITC and Kenya SBC are essential.
With funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), SBS is implementing the USAID Strategic Partnership program, which is spearheading the empowerment of MSMEs through one of its projects, the Kenya Small Business Development Centres (SBDC). Leveraging the best practices from the U.S. SBDC model, this initiative provides advisory services, training, and facilitation of access to markets and finance for MSMEs in six counties (Mombasa, Nakuru, Kiambu, Kisumu, Makueni, and Isiolo).
Consequently, under ITC’s Digital Moonshot and the European Union (EU)-East African Community (EAC) Market Access Upgrade Programme (MARKUP II), ITC is empowering micro, small, and medium-sized to sell online through its personalized learning program, technical assistance, digital tools, and innovative solutions, together with local and international partners.
Through the collaboration, ITC and Kenya SBDC will establish an SBDC Digital Trade Hub in 6 counties. The primary objective of these hubs is to empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with the essential skills and knowledge required to access new markets through e-commerce.
The SBDC Digital Trade Hubs will serve as comprehensive resources for MSMEs, offering a blend of online and offline support. Leveraging ITC’s ecomConnect Learning Programme, the hubs will provide access to a wide range of e-commerce training materials and resources. Additionally, MSMEs will benefit from in-person coaching and training sessions from Kenya SBDC, further enhancing their proficiency in utilizing e-commerce sales channels.
By Morris Makabe
Image Credits: Image by snowing on Freepik
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