County Expands Nairobi Microfinance Programs

Nairobi County has expanded its microfinance programs in 2025 to strengthen support for small businesses, youth, and women entrepreneurs. The initiative, announced on July 22, 2025, aims to provide affordable credit, training, and financial literacy to underserved groups, helping them grow sustainable enterprises and create jobs.
The expansion builds on the county’s earlier financial inclusion agenda and aligns with Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). Through partnerships with local banks, SACCOs, and fintech firms, the county is offering tailored loan products, digital savings platforms, and mentorship programs. Officials emphasized that the program is designed to reduce barriers to accessing capital, particularly for informal traders and startups who often struggle with collateral requirements.
The announcement has been welcomed by business associations and community groups. Youth and women entrepreneurs praised the initiative for giving them access to affordable financing, while policymakers noted that microfinance expansion will stimulate Nairobi’s economy by empowering grassroots enterprises. Analysts also highlighted that the program could help reduce unemployment and poverty by enabling small businesses to scale.
Looking ahead, Nairobi County plans to integrate digital microfinance tools into the program, allowing entrepreneurs to access loans and savings via mobile apps. Officials believe that by expanding microfinance, Nairobi can reinforce its role as a hub for inclusive economic growth and innovation.