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PRINCIPAL SECRETARY SUSAN MANG’ENI CALLS FOR PRIORITY PASSAGE OF START-UP BILL

Principal Secretary, State Department for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Development, Susan Mang’eni, has urged Parliament to prioritise the Start-Up Bill when the House resumes sittings in February 2026, describing the proposed legislation as a game changer for MSMEs, which remain a key driver of Kenya’s economy.

She noted that MSMEs form the backbone of enterprise in the country, contributing significantly to job creation, innovation, and inclusive economic growth, particularly for youth and women.

Speaking during the Grand Nandi Youth Festival 2025, PS. Mang’eni said the Bill—currently at the mediation stage—will unlock sustainable funding pathways for MSMEs, strengthen the national innovation ecosystem, and enable existing financing platforms to more effectively empower startups and small businesses.

“The Start-Up Bill will provide a structured and predictable framework that supports innovation-driven enterprises and enhances access to financing,” she said.

The Principal Secretary also challenged the academic sector to take a leading role in activating the knowledge economy, in line with H.E. President William Ruto’s vision of transitioning Kenya from a Third World to a First World economy. She emphasised that the digital economy will be central to achieving this transformation.

PS. Mang’eni attended the official opening of the festival alongside Eng. John Tanui, Principal Secretary, State Department for ICT and the Digital Economy; Hon. Cynthia Muge, Member of Parliament, Nandi County; Kasmuel Mc’oure, Convener of the Broad-Based Youth Front; and Prof. Ruth Choge, Deputy Principal, Koitalel Samoei University College.

The Grand Nandi Youth Festival 2025 brought together young innovators, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to spotlight entrepreneurship, digital skills, and inclusive economic growth.

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