Enhancing SMEs Competitiveness Along Value Chains Approach in Technology Dissemination in North Rift and Western Regions of Kenya

Michael Cheloti; Arthur Onyuka; Ingrid Wekesa; Ephraim Njure; Emmanuel Kariuki; Gladys Mugo; Benard Kibet; Duncan Mugera; Anne Ndiege

doi:doi:10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14

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Enhancing SMEs Competitiveness Along Value Chains Approach in Technology Dissemination in North Rift and Western Regions of Kenya

Michael Cheloti^*

, Arthur Onyuka, Ingrid Wekesa

, Ephraim Njure

, Emmanuel Kariuki

, Gladys Mugo

, Benard Kibet

, Duncan Mugera

, Anne Ndiege

Published in International Journal of Business and Economics Research (Volume 14, Issue 6)

Received: 21 August 2025 Accepted: 13 September 2025 Published: 24 December 2025

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Abstract

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) significantly contribute to Kenya’s GDP and play a crucial role in job creation. Despite their importance, many MSMEs face challenges such as inadequate skills, limited access to technology, and barriers to scaling their operations. Recognizing these gaps, the KIRDI-KIEP training initiative was designed to unlock the potential of MSMEs by promoting technology dissemination and hands-on capacity building. The program not only offered practical training but also extended support through incubation programs and access to Common Manufacturing Facilities (CMFs). These resources gave entrepreneurs the opportunity to experiment, innovate, and refine their products in a supportive environment. The training aimed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to launch viable commercial enterprises, address production challenges, and drive economic growth. Participants were selected based on business readiness, technology needs assessment, gender inclusivity, and a focus on youth empowerment. Priority was given to technologies with high market demand and community impact, including animal feed formulation, honey processing, fruit and vegetable dehydration, dairy processing, and soap and detergent production. The primary challenge for SMEs is limited competitiveness due to regulatory and infrastructure hurdles. This training provided practical skills to enhance scalability, competitiveness, and commercialization, contributing to sustainable development and economic growth.

Published in	International Journal of Business and Economics Research (Volume 14, Issue 6)
DOI	10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14
Page(s)	267-271
Creative Commons	This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.
Copyright	Copyright © The Author(s), 2025. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Value Chains, Technology Dissemination, Incubation, Micro-Small and Medium Enterprises

References

[1]	Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (Kenya). (2024). About MSMEs. Government of Kenya. https://msme.go.ke/about-msmes
[2]	Muthee, E., & Maina, R. (2023). Entrepreneurial social capital and performance of micro, small, and medium enterprises. International Journal of Entrepreneurial Knowledge, 11(2), 127–138. https://doi.org/10.37335/ijek.v11i2.208
[3]	Egbetokun, A. (2023). Business incubators in Africa: A review of the literature. Journal of African Entrepreneurship. https://cepr.org/system/files/publication-files/JA%207487.
[4]	Ngugi, J., & Were, E. (2023). Entrepreneurship training and MSME survival in developing economies: Evidence from Kenya. African Journal of Business Management, 17(4), 101–112. https://doi.org/10.5897/AJBM2023.9507
[5]	Gichuki, G. K., Karanja, K., & Atikiya, R. (2024). The moderating influence of legal and regulatory framework on the relationship between organizational structure and strategy implementation by devolved governments in Kenya. Journal of Agriculture, Science and Technology, 23(1), 171–210. https://doi.org/10.4314/jagst.v24i1.11
[6]	Katana, C. K., Peter, G. M., & Fwamba, R. (2025). Financial technology and financial performance of micro, small and medium enterprises in Kakamega County, Kenya. International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI), 120500151. https://doi.org/10.51244/IJRSI.2025.120500151
[7]	Lagat, D. J., & Njaramba, J. (2024). Accessibility of credit and performance of micro, small and medium enterprises in Nandi County, Kenya. African Tax and Customs Review, 8(1), 12. https://atcr.kra.go.ke/index.php/atcr/article/view/121
[8]	Mwakio, A. M., Mbogho, P. K., Omido, K. H., & Mwagandi, S. M. (2024). Impact of accessibility of digital financial services on financial inclusion among SMEs in Taita Taveta County, Kenya. International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research, 2(3), 391–403. https://doi.org/10.61108/ijsshr.v2i3.149
[9]	Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA). (2023). Fourth Medium Term Plan (MTP IV), 2023–2027. Government of Kenya. https://repository.kippra.or.ke/handle/123456789/4856
[10]	Office of the President (Kenya). (2024, December 15). Innovative BETA programmes transforming lives of Kenyans – PresidentRuto. https://www.president.go.ke/innovative-beta-programmes-transforming-lives-of-kenyans-president-ruto
[11]	ACCA Global. (2025, July). Will the budget transform Kenya’s MSMEs? AB Magazine. https://abmagazine.accaglobal.com/content/abmagazine/global/articles/2025/jul/business/will-budget-transform-kenya-s-msmes-.html
[12]	Trade Facilitation East Africa Programme. (2023). Kenya country profile. TFEP. https://www.tfep.org/kenya
[13]	Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA). (2024). Kenya Jobs and Economic Transformation (KJET) project. https://msea.go.ke/kjetproject
[14]	Omondi, P. (2024). Sustainable entrepreneurship and MSME resilience in Kenya’s green economy. Journal of Sustainable Development in Africa, 26(2), 55–70. https://doi.org/10.5321/jsda.v26i2.2345

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APA Style

Cheloti, M., Onyuka, A., Wekesa, I., Njure, E., Kariuki, E., et al. (2025). Enhancing SMEs Competitiveness Along Value Chains Approach in Technology Dissemination in North Rift and Western Regions of Kenya. International Journal of Business and Economics Research, 14(6), 267-271. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14

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ACS Style

Cheloti, M.; Onyuka, A.; Wekesa, I.; Njure, E.; Kariuki, E., et al. Enhancing SMEs Competitiveness Along Value Chains Approach in Technology Dissemination in North Rift and Western Regions of Kenya. Int. J. Bus. Econ. Res. 2025, 14(6), 267-271. doi: 10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14

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AMA Style

Cheloti M, Onyuka A, Wekesa I, Njure E, Kariuki E, et al. Enhancing SMEs Competitiveness Along Value Chains Approach in Technology Dissemination in North Rift and Western Regions of Kenya. Int J Bus Econ Res. 2025;14(6):267-271. doi: 10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14

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@article{10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14,
  author = {Michael Cheloti and Arthur Onyuka and Ingrid Wekesa and Ephraim Njure and Emmanuel Kariuki and Gladys Mugo and Benard Kibet and Duncan Mugera and Anne Ndiege},
  title = {Enhancing SMEs Competitiveness Along Value Chains Approach in Technology Dissemination in North Rift and Western Regions of Kenya},
  journal = {International Journal of Business and Economics Research},
  volume = {14},
  number = {6},
  pages = {267-271},
  doi = {10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ijber.20251406.14},
  abstract = {Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) significantly contribute to Kenya’s GDP and play a crucial role in job creation. Despite their importance, many MSMEs face challenges such as inadequate skills, limited access to technology, and barriers to scaling their operations. Recognizing these gaps, the KIRDI-KIEP training initiative was designed to unlock the potential of MSMEs by promoting technology dissemination and hands-on capacity building. The program not only offered practical training but also extended support through incubation programs and access to Common Manufacturing Facilities (CMFs). These resources gave entrepreneurs the opportunity to experiment, innovate, and refine their products in a supportive environment. The training aimed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to launch viable commercial enterprises, address production challenges, and drive economic growth. Participants were selected based on business readiness, technology needs assessment, gender inclusivity, and a focus on youth empowerment. Priority was given to technologies with high market demand and community impact, including animal feed formulation, honey processing, fruit and vegetable dehydration, dairy processing, and soap and detergent production. The primary challenge for SMEs is limited competitiveness due to regulatory and infrastructure hurdles. This training provided practical skills to enhance scalability, competitiveness, and commercialization, contributing to sustainable development and economic growth.},
 year = {2025}
}

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TY  - JOUR
T1  - Enhancing SMEs Competitiveness Along Value Chains Approach in Technology Dissemination in North Rift and Western Regions of Kenya
AU  - Michael Cheloti
AU  - Arthur Onyuka
AU  - Ingrid Wekesa
AU  - Ephraim Njure
AU  - Emmanuel Kariuki
AU  - Gladys Mugo
AU  - Benard Kibet
AU  - Duncan Mugera
AU  - Anne Ndiege
Y1  - 2025/12/24
PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14
DO  - 10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14
T2  - International Journal of Business and Economics Research
JF  - International Journal of Business and Economics Research
JO  - International Journal of Business and Economics Research
SP  - 267
EP  - 271
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2328-756X
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14
AB  - Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) significantly contribute to Kenya’s GDP and play a crucial role in job creation. Despite their importance, many MSMEs face challenges such as inadequate skills, limited access to technology, and barriers to scaling their operations. Recognizing these gaps, the KIRDI-KIEP training initiative was designed to unlock the potential of MSMEs by promoting technology dissemination and hands-on capacity building. The program not only offered practical training but also extended support through incubation programs and access to Common Manufacturing Facilities (CMFs). These resources gave entrepreneurs the opportunity to experiment, innovate, and refine their products in a supportive environment. The training aimed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to launch viable commercial enterprises, address production challenges, and drive economic growth. Participants were selected based on business readiness, technology needs assessment, gender inclusivity, and a focus on youth empowerment. Priority was given to technologies with high market demand and community impact, including animal feed formulation, honey processing, fruit and vegetable dehydration, dairy processing, and soap and detergent production. The primary challenge for SMEs is limited competitiveness due to regulatory and infrastructure hurdles. This training provided practical skills to enhance scalability, competitiveness, and commercialization, contributing to sustainable development and economic growth.
VL  - 14
IS  - 6
ER  -

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Author Information

Michael Cheloti

Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute, Nairobi, Kenya

Contact Email

http://orcid.org/0000-0003-4263-213X
Arthur Onyuka

Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
Ingrid Wekesa

Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute, Nairobi, Kenya

http://orcid.org/0000-0002-8577-2549
Ephraim Njure

Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute, Nairobi, Kenya

http://orcid.org/0009-0002-1254-9706
Emmanuel Kariuki

Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute, Nairobi, Kenya

http://orcid.org/0009-0001-4850-1563
Gladys Mugo

Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute, Nairobi, Kenya

http://orcid.org/0000-0002-3085-2840
Benard Kibet

Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute, Nairobi, Kenya

http://orcid.org/0000-0002-0634-992X
Duncan Mugera

Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute, Nairobi, Kenya

http://orcid.org/0009-0004-7796-9853
Anne Ndiege

Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute, Nairobi, Kenya

http://orcid.org/0009-0009-8140-7585

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Plain Text BibTeX RIS

APA Style

Cheloti, M., Onyuka, A., Wekesa, I., Njure, E., Kariuki, E., et al. (2025). Enhancing SMEs Competitiveness Along Value Chains Approach in Technology Dissemination in North Rift and Western Regions of Kenya. International Journal of Business and Economics Research, 14(6), 267-271. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14

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ACS Style

Cheloti, M.; Onyuka, A.; Wekesa, I.; Njure, E.; Kariuki, E., et al. Enhancing SMEs Competitiveness Along Value Chains Approach in Technology Dissemination in North Rift and Western Regions of Kenya. Int. J. Bus. Econ. Res. 2025, 14(6), 267-271. doi: 10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14

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AMA Style

Cheloti M, Onyuka A, Wekesa I, Njure E, Kariuki E, et al. Enhancing SMEs Competitiveness Along Value Chains Approach in Technology Dissemination in North Rift and Western Regions of Kenya. Int J Bus Econ Res. 2025;14(6):267-271. doi: 10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14

Copy | Download

@article{10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14,
  author = {Michael Cheloti and Arthur Onyuka and Ingrid Wekesa and Ephraim Njure and Emmanuel Kariuki and Gladys Mugo and Benard Kibet and Duncan Mugera and Anne Ndiege},
  title = {Enhancing SMEs Competitiveness Along Value Chains Approach in Technology Dissemination in North Rift and Western Regions of Kenya},
  journal = {International Journal of Business and Economics Research},
  volume = {14},
  number = {6},
  pages = {267-271},
  doi = {10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ijber.20251406.14},
  abstract = {Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) significantly contribute to Kenya’s GDP and play a crucial role in job creation. Despite their importance, many MSMEs face challenges such as inadequate skills, limited access to technology, and barriers to scaling their operations. Recognizing these gaps, the KIRDI-KIEP training initiative was designed to unlock the potential of MSMEs by promoting technology dissemination and hands-on capacity building. The program not only offered practical training but also extended support through incubation programs and access to Common Manufacturing Facilities (CMFs). These resources gave entrepreneurs the opportunity to experiment, innovate, and refine their products in a supportive environment. The training aimed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to launch viable commercial enterprises, address production challenges, and drive economic growth. Participants were selected based on business readiness, technology needs assessment, gender inclusivity, and a focus on youth empowerment. Priority was given to technologies with high market demand and community impact, including animal feed formulation, honey processing, fruit and vegetable dehydration, dairy processing, and soap and detergent production. The primary challenge for SMEs is limited competitiveness due to regulatory and infrastructure hurdles. This training provided practical skills to enhance scalability, competitiveness, and commercialization, contributing to sustainable development and economic growth.},
 year = {2025}
}

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TY  - JOUR
T1  - Enhancing SMEs Competitiveness Along Value Chains Approach in Technology Dissemination in North Rift and Western Regions of Kenya
AU  - Michael Cheloti
AU  - Arthur Onyuka
AU  - Ingrid Wekesa
AU  - Ephraim Njure
AU  - Emmanuel Kariuki
AU  - Gladys Mugo
AU  - Benard Kibet
AU  - Duncan Mugera
AU  - Anne Ndiege
Y1  - 2025/12/24
PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14
DO  - 10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14
T2  - International Journal of Business and Economics Research
JF  - International Journal of Business and Economics Research
JO  - International Journal of Business and Economics Research
SP  - 267
EP  - 271
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2328-756X
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijber.20251406.14
AB  - Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) significantly contribute to Kenya’s GDP and play a crucial role in job creation. Despite their importance, many MSMEs face challenges such as inadequate skills, limited access to technology, and barriers to scaling their operations. Recognizing these gaps, the KIRDI-KIEP training initiative was designed to unlock the potential of MSMEs by promoting technology dissemination and hands-on capacity building. The program not only offered practical training but also extended support through incubation programs and access to Common Manufacturing Facilities (CMFs). These resources gave entrepreneurs the opportunity to experiment, innovate, and refine their products in a supportive environment. The training aimed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to launch viable commercial enterprises, address production challenges, and drive economic growth. Participants were selected based on business readiness, technology needs assessment, gender inclusivity, and a focus on youth empowerment. Priority was given to technologies with high market demand and community impact, including animal feed formulation, honey processing, fruit and vegetable dehydration, dairy processing, and soap and detergent production. The primary challenge for SMEs is limited competitiveness due to regulatory and infrastructure hurdles. This training provided practical skills to enhance scalability, competitiveness, and commercialization, contributing to sustainable development and economic growth.
VL  - 14
IS  - 6
ER  -

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