Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary (CS) Wycliffe Oparanya reaffirmed the government’s dedication to supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through financial incentives, highlighting that over 20 million Kenyans derive livelihoods from the sector. During the second edition of Homa Bay County’s Juakali artisan day at Raila Odinga Stadium, Oparanya outlined available resources, including the Uwezo Fund, Women Fund, Youth Fund, Kenya Industrial Estates, and the Kenya Development Corporation. He also noted the construction of over 400 modern markets nationwide to bolster SME operations, stressing the importance of technology in streamlining business transactions.
Oparanya addressed criticism of the proposed Dangote Oil refinery project in Lamu, condemning politicians who he claimed sought to deter investors. “It is unfortunate that we have such politicians who are hell-bent on driving away investors from the country,” he stated, urging citizens to confront such rhetoric. The CS underscored the project’s potential to create 60,000 jobs during construction, framing private sector participation as vital for economic growth and employment. He also called for unity between the ODM and UDA parties, stating, “We must ensure that both are strengthened to form a strong government after next year’s elections.”
The CS commended Homa Bay County Women Representative Joyce Osogo for mobilizing resources to support SMEs, noting the office’s provision of tools and equipment to women and youth groups, including welding machinery. The event, attended by Secretary for Public Communications Patricia Odeng and other dignitaries, coincided with a call to uphold peace during October, a memorial month for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Oparanya reiterated the government’s role in fostering stability and development, aligning with broader efforts to enhance economic resilience.
Oparanya’s remarks highlighted the interplay between policy, infrastructure, and political coordination in advancing SMEs and large-scale projects. His emphasis on financial accessibility, technological adoption, and investor confidence reflects a multifaceted approach to Kenya’s economic priorities, while his direct criticism of opposition narratives underscores the political dimensions of development initiatives.