The Annual KEPSA KENYA SME Conference, organized in collaboration with KEPSA Kenya and the Mastercard Foundation, recently took place at the Kenya Institute of
Curriculum Development (KICD). The event was a significant platform for discussing the future of SMEs in Kenya, focusing on the theme, “Unlocking Financing and Scaling up Innovations and Accelerated Growth.” The discussions centered around the 4 A’s approach to SME financing: Accessibility, Affordability, Acceptability, and Awareness.
Our participation in the conference not only provided us with the opportunity to engage with key industry players but also allowed us to gain valuable insights, particularly in Kenya’s dairy sector. Here are the key takeaways from our interactions:
Enhancing Dairy Value Addition Awareness
One of the prominent challenges highlighted during our discussions was the lack of awareness about the benefits of dairy value addition. Many farmers are eager to explore value-added dairy products but hesitate due to misconceptions regarding costs and a lack of information. This gap underscores the need for targeted education and resources to empower farmers. At Techwin Limited, we are committed to addressing these barriers by training farmers on value-addition techniques and helping them enhance their market presence and profitability.
Facilitating Access to Financing
Access to financing is crucial for the growth and scaling of dairy operations. The conference emphasized the importance of the 4 A’s approach in SME financing, particularly in making funds accessible, affordable, acceptable, and raising awareness among farmers. For many farmers, financial support is essential to invest in value addition equipment. We see immense potential in collaboration between financial institutions and industry stakeholders to develop financing solutions that can drive growth and competitiveness in the dairy sector.
Strengthening Regulatory and Industry Collaboration
The potential for value addition in Kenya’s dairy sector is vast, but unlocking this potential requires a concerted effort to strengthen regulatory frameworks and foster industry collaboration. Simplifying licensing processes, upholding quality standards, and implementing supportive policies are essential steps in this direction. Effective collaboration between the industry and regulators will create an environment conducive to innovation and sustainable growth. Techwin Limited is committed to contributing to these discussions and working towards improved regulatory and industry practices.
Meeting the Demand for Solar-powered Equipment
As we continue to engage with farmers, we have observed a growing demand for solar-powered equipment, particularly in regions with limited grid access. Solar energy solutions offer a sustainable way to enhance production efficiency while reducing costs. Techwin Limited is dedicated to meeting this demand by supplying solar-powered equipment and supporting farmers in adopting these technologies. We also invite potential partners to join us in expanding the impact of solar technologies in the dairy sector.
The conference underscored the vast opportunities available to SMEs in Kenya, regionally, and internationally. It highlighted the importance of fostering a culture of innovation by investing in supportive ecosystems and empowering entrepreneurs. At Techwin Limited, we are committed to supporting farmers through training and providing solar-powered equipment, and we extend our gratitude to KCIC Consulting Limited (KCL) for their continued support in advocating for sustainable solar dairy equipment.
We call upon all stakeholders in the dairy sector to join us in these initiatives. Together, we can drive meaningful improvements, empower farmers, and contribute to the growth of a vibrant and sustainable dairy industry in Kenya.
