The County Government of Uasin Gishu has taken a significant step toward strengthening its economic policy framework by engaging traders and business stakeholders across all six sub-counties in public participation forums. This follows the development of draft policies on trade and investment, MSME funding, and tourism, crafted in partnership with the SNV Netherlands Development Organisation.

The forums, coordinated by the Department of Trade and Cooperatives, brought together business membership organizations, cooperatives, trader associations, investors, and other players in the business community. Participants reviewed the draft documents and offered detailed feedback aimed at shaping the county’s economic direction and ensuring that the policies respond to real on-the-ground needs.

During one of the sessions on Tuesday, Deputy Director of Investment Brenda Rono who represented the County Executive Committee Member for Trade and Cooperatives, Martha Cheruto praised the collaboration with SNV and highlighted the county’s determination to unlock new opportunities for traders and enterprises.

“These policies are designed to position Uasin Gishu as a hub of everything trade, investment, tourism, and enterprise,” she said. “We want to ensure that every voice is captured so that the final framework reflects the aspirations of our traders, MSMEs, and investors as we grow as a city.”

Chief Officer for Trade, Felix Kimaru, noted that the draft policies provide a foundation for a more predictable, supportive, and sustainable business environment.

“Our goal is to streamline trade processes, strengthen MSME funding models, and build structures that attract investment and boost tourism,” he said. “Public participation allows us to validate these proposals with the people who engage in business daily.”

According to the department, the feedback collected through the forums will be incorporated into the final drafts before the policies are presented for further review and eventual adoption.

The county government maintains that policy reforms remain critical to promoting inclusive growth, enhancing competitiveness, and positioning Uasin Gishu as a dynamic regional economic center.