CS Oparanya champions regional trade at EAC MSMEs fair in South Sudan

4Over 1,500 exhibitors from East African Community (EAC) partner states have gathered in Juba, South Sudan, for the 24th annual EAC MSMEs Trade Fair, marking a significant opportunity for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to expand into South Sudan and across the region.

The event aims to provide a premier platform for MSMEs to bolster their market presence and foster economic integration across the now eight EAC member states, according to organisers.

Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs Development Wycliffe Oparanya, speaking during Kenya Day celebrations at the fair, remarked that this year’s theme, "Promotion of Unique Innovations and Skills Development Amongst EAC MSMEs," resonates with Kenya’s "Buy Kenya, Build Kenya" agenda.

"The annual trade fair has distinguished itself as an instrument for promoting intra-EAC trade and investment by enabling businesses to interact and access market information and opportunities," he said, highlighting that the forum will allow 483 Kenyan MSMEs to gain insights into the evolving market dynamics and foster business linkages.

Since its inception, the EAC MSMEs Trade Fair has gathered exhibitors from the region, providing a space to showcase technologies and promote regional economic integration.

With the recent addition of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Somalia, the EAC now represents a market of over 312 million people and a combined GDP of approximately $305 billion, providing a strategic gateway to the larger African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya joins Kenyans in dance during Kenya Day celebrations at the EAC MSMEs Trade Fair in Juba, South Sudan on Tuesday, Ocotober 29, 2024. (Photo: Handout)

Speaking on behalf of the South Sudan government, Trade and Industry Minister Ambassador Joseph Majak lauded the partnership among EAC states, saying it strengthens regional ties and promotes innovation.

"This is a commendable effort to advance MSMEs’ role in our economic integration and ensure our markets benefit from stronger linkages with the continental economy," he noted.

In addition to showcasing innovations, the 10-day event features a programme of country-specific days, cultural exhibitions, and opportunities for policy dialogue.

Principal Secretary of the State Department for MSMEs, Susan Mang’eni, emphasised that Kenya's government has prioritised resource allocation for a diversified MSME sector under its medium-term agenda for 2023-2027, especially through investment in priority value chains.

MSEA Board Chairman James Mureu underscored the importance of e-commerce in overcoming traditional trade barriers, urging MSMEs to leverage digital platforms to broaden their customer reach beyond physical storefronts.

Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA) CEO Henry Rithaa added that Kenya’s Enterprise Development Centres are critical in supporting MSMEs, providing incubation services that enhance the value of local products.

Alongside the exhibitions, the trade fair includes business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-government (B2G) forums, designed to facilitate partnerships and policy exchanges that advance regional trade.

Kenya’s participation is led by MSEA, with support from the EAC Secretariat, ensuring that MSMEs have ample opportunity to showcase and expand into new markets across East Africa and beyond.