This archive report was first published on 9 July 2020.
On Thursday, Deputy President William Ruto hosted an empowerment programme for Nairobi County youth and women groups at his Karen residence, where he emphasized the government's commitment to supporting small businesses.
According to Dr. Ruto, the government recognizes the vital role that small businesses play in the economy, creating job opportunities for many Kenyans and having the potential to create even more jobs.
He noted that the government is working with leaders from sectors in the lower level to ensure that they influence government policies to support their businesses.
Dr. Ruto also called for the formalization of the informal business sector, arguing that this would create more opportunities for those involved and earn the government more taxes.
He urged Kenyans of goodwill to step forward and support those whose income had been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, stating that government programmes might not reach everyone.
MPs George Theuri, Benjamin Gathiru, Nixon Korir, and Nominated Senator Milicent Omanga were present at the event.