Ministers and business leaders from East African Community (EAC) countries convened at the 25th EAC Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME) Trade Fair in Nairobi, emphasizing SMEs as crucial for economic growth and highlighting the need for improved access to finance and greater participation in green and digital trade.

• SMEs contribute approximately 30% of Kenya's GDP and account for over 90% of new jobs, while across the EAC region, they represent more than 90% of businesses, 60% of employment, and 29% of regional GDP.
• The roundtable was co-hosted by Wycliffe Oparanya, Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSME Development, and Pamela Coke-Hamilton, Executive Director of the International Trade Centre (ITC).
• ITC research indicates that 43% of businesses face difficulties accessing finance, rising to 57% for micro firms, and only one-third of companies have adapted to climate change.

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has officially appointed George Obell, MBS, as the Commissioner for the Micro and Small Taxpayers Department (MST), effective November 10, 2025. Obell, who previously served in an acting capacity, is recognized for establishing operational structures and enhancing tax compliance among small businesses.

• 28 years of experience in tax administration.
• George Obell led advancements in digital taxation, electronic invoicing, and risk-based compliance.
• Initiatives include a USSD-based platform and a WhatsApp chatbot for taxpayer services.

Shimaka Necheza Leonard has been appointed to the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Board of Directors by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi on November 4, 2025. His legal expertise and governance experience are expected to strengthen the institution's integrity and accountability.

• Shimaka Leonard is an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya with over a decade of experience.
• The appointment was welcomed by KRA Board Chair Ndiritu Muriithi and KRA Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga.
• KRA plays a critical role in national security through border control and enforcement functions, in addition to revenue administration.