State reaffirms commitment to growing Kenya's small business sector

Rolling Cargo International Director Mohamed Abdi (second left) during the Elite Brands Awards International ceremony in Nairobi. [Courtesy]

The government has pledged to continue supporting small businesses by championing progressive policies and the availability of affordable credit facilities.

Speaking during the Elite Brands Awards International ceremony in Nairobi, Co-operatives and MSMEs Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya, said the William Ruto-led government is committed to also ensure availability of capacity-building programmes for small businesses in the country.

The CS said the State is already implementing strategic initiatives such as MSME Connect and regional trade fairs aimed at expanding market access and promoting enterprise growth across the country. He encouraged businesses to invest in their employees, embrace innovation and create opportunities for youth and women to foster continuous improvement, ethical leadership, and sustainable enterprise development.

In a speech delivered by his Special Advisor, Dr Edward Mudibo, Oparanya underscored the importance of trust, innovation and ethical leadership in building resilient and globally competitive brands.

 “A strong and sustainable brand is built on trust, innovation, and ethical leadership. Organisations should prioritise these values to enhance customer satisfaction and achieve sustainable growth,” said Oparanya.

During the awards, Kenya-based freight and forwarding firm Rolling Cargo International was named as the transport, freight and logistics company of the year, earning the firm regional recognition for its excellence, innovation and contribution to Africa's logistics sector.

The award recognises organisations that demonstrate outstanding operational performance, ethical leadership, job creation and positive social impact. Winners were selected through the Organisation Performance Index (OPI), public voting and assessment by an independent panel of judges benchmarked against global standards.

Speaking after receiving the award, Rolling Cargo International Director Mohamed Abdi described the recognition as a milestone in the company's 18-year journey.

"This award is not just an accolade but a validation of nearly two decades of relentless commitment to excellence and innovation in one of the world's most demanding industries," he said.

Abdi attributed the company's success to its investment in high operational standards, skilled personnel and internationally recognised certifications. Rolling Cargo holds both ISO certification and Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) accreditation, demonstrating compliance with stringent quality, security and customs requirements in international trade.

He said the company continues to invest in staff training to ensure its workforce remains equipped to handle increasingly complex global logistics and supply chain demands.

Looking ahead, Abdi said the company aims to expand its role in facilitating intra-African trade by leveraging opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

"Our vision is to position African businesses to trade more efficiently with one another and with the global economy while maintaining the reliability and professionalism that define our services," he said.

The Elite Brands Awards International is an annual leadership recognition programme organised by the non-governmental organisation Jubilant Stewards of Africa (JSA) in collaboration with the United SMEs Association of Kenya, Pacesetters International Research and Consultancy Ltd and other partners. This year's event attracted business leaders, policymakers and delegates from more than 18 countries.

JSA Executive Director Jared Oundo congratulated the winners, saying they exemplify the highest standards of African enterprise.

"Today's winners represent the very best of African enterprise, innovation and leadership. Through quality service and ethical business practices, they are helping shape a more prosperous Africa," he said.