Governor Launches 10,000 Initiative to Boost Local Economy in Nairobi

Nairobi County is gearing up for the launch of Governor Johnson Sakaja’s flagship Biashara Stimulus Programme, a transformative initiative aimed at empowering Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) across the city. The programme, unveiled during a strategic planning session in Naivasha on December 13, 2024, brings together key partners including the Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) and the Institute of Certified Start and Improve Your Business (ICST-SIYB). Deputy Governor Njoroge Muchiri described the project as a major milestone in fulfilling the administration’s campaign pledges to support local entrepreneurs who struggle to access formal credit.
The Biashara Stimulus Programme will be rolled out across 17 sub-counties and 85 wards in Nairobi, with the goal of stimulating enterprise growth, creating jobs, and strengthening the city’s socio-economic fabric. According to County Chief Officer for Business and Hustler Opportunities, Godfrey Akumali, the programme will offer both financial and technical support to help small enterprises scale up into medium-sized businesses. By partnering with financial institutions such as KCB, the county aims to make credit more affordable, with subsidized interest rates reduced to single digits. The initiative will also provide training, market linkages, and mentorship to help entrepreneurs sustain and grow their businesses.
Deputy Governor Muchiri emphasized that the success of the initiative will depend on building trust between the county government, financial partners, and the beneficiaries. Dr. Nyalita from ICST-SIYB noted that the joint planning sessions provided a vital platform for aligning implementation strategies and ensuring accountability. The program’s launch has been met with optimism among county officials