The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) has signed an MOU with Elgeyo Marakwet County to work with local business people as the county gears up to establish cottage industries.
County Executive Committee (CEC) member in charge of Trade, Robert Kangogo said the MOU will see the business people not only receive training but also get seed capital and loans to start the industries from the Master Card Foundation through KNCCI.
The CEC said his department will embark on a grassroots sensitisation exercise to get business men and women to register with the organisation in addition to capacity build them on financial literacy and governance.
Speaking in Iten during the MOU signing ceremony, Laura Kandie from KNCCI said her organisation will provide networking opportunities for business owners, entrepreneurs and the county government to share ideas, collaborate and partner in various business opportunities.
According to the MOU, KNCCI will ensure business owners are involved in the development of important business related county legislation including finance acts among others.
KNCCI will also develop the necessary database for traders, accredit those registered and provide them with certificates.
The organisation will refer partners and donors from its network to partner and invest in the county and support Micro Small and Medium sized Enterprises (MSMEs) to access credit facilities, business advisory services and market linkages.
The county on its part will ensure KNCCI is represented in all levels of decision making from the ward development committees to Municipal and County boards to ensure the interests of business owners are well articulated.
It will also ensure that all contractors/traders operating within the county are duly registered and approved/affiliated to KNCCI Elgeyo Marakwet chapter.
By Alice Wanjiru
