Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) continue to play an integral role in building the economy of the country. A National Economic Survey report by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) indicates that SMEs constitute 98 percent of all business in Kenya, create 30 percent of the jobs annually as well as contribute 3 percent of the GDP. Despite the huge role SMEs play in driving growth, it is estimated their contribution is minimal.
It is on this background that Bizna Kenya in partnership with Frontlite Media established the BizTalks Show, to provide an avenue for SMEs to discuss and address their challenges and possible solutions. The Show, produced and hosted by Maina Chege (MC), has hosted over 30 entrepreneurs in various sectors including manufacturing, telecommunications, education, energy, banking, insurance, circular economy, sports, music, and marketing.
“Bizna Kenya addresses some of the challenges that small business in Kenya and Africa face. These include but are not limited to: Lack of access to markets. Lack of access to finance. Lack of entrepreneurship capacity to manage and grow their businesses. The rise of Biztalks was to create a forum where we discuss some of these issues with relevant stakeholder, and we are proud of the journey so far. Because today we are happy to launch Biztalks Season 2,” Bizna Kenya Chief Executive Officer, Tonnie Mello.
Biztalks, which promotes Buy-Kenya-Build-Kenya saw local entrepreneurs and even artist grace the show in solidarity to mark its celebrations.
“I challenge SMEs to Know their customer, company, competitor, current price of the product/service and know that you are the best in the market, because no one is doing what you are doing,” said Chair, Bidco Africa, Vimal Shah adding that one must empower people for succession when growing your business for continuity purposes. Have two people below you who can do what you do!
The 2nd season of the BizTalks Show was launched today, on Friday, January 28th, 2022, at The Exchange, Westlands. The chief guest was businessman and Chairman of Bidco Africa, Vimal Shah accompanied by NSE CEO Geoffrey Odundo. BizTalk Show hosted by Frontlite Media CEO, Biztalks Host and Producer, MC: Maina Chege had a series of off-site interviews, action-based interviews, and demonstrations as well as live audience features – to enhance conversations and show impact of the discussions to SMEs, Government, and stakeholders within the SME sector.
