KIPPRA participated in the 2nd Annual Policy Workshop and Forum organized by the Association of Startups and SMEs Enablers of Kenya (ASSEK) on March 6–7, 2025, in Nairobi. Themed “Regulation for Innovation, Growth and Competitiveness,” the two-day forum convened over 70 participants, including policymakers, entrepreneurs, regulators, and innovation ecosystem stakeholders. The event aimed to foster dialogue on creating an enabling regulatory environment that supports startups and SMEs in Kenya.
KIPPRA was represented by Senior Policy Analyst Anne Kinya Gitonga, who contributed to a panel discussion on regulatory frameworks for emerging innovations to drive industrial competitiveness. The panel included representatives from Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute (KIRDI), Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI), and Kenya Industrial Estates (KIE), among others.
Discussions highlighted the importance of aligning regulatory frameworks with the rapid pace of innovation, ensuring that policies empower startups and SMEs while safeguarding public interests. Participants emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between government agencies, private sector players, and development partners to create a conducive environment for innovation and entrepreneurship.
The forum also underscored the significance of women’s participation in entrepreneurship as a catalyst for economic growth and societal development. Stakeholders called for inclusive policies that support female entrepreneurs and address gender-specific challenges in the business ecosystem.
KIPPRA’s engagement in the forum reflects its commitment to contributing to policy dialogues that promote innovation, industrial growth, and socioeconomic development in Kenya. The institute continues to provide evidence-based policy advice to support the country’s development agenda.
