On May 23, 2024, KEPSA participated in the “Grow with Safaricom Business” forum at the Safaricom HQ2, Michael Joseph Centre. The monthly forum, hosted by Safaricom Business in partnership with KEPSA and Melta, aims to provide small businesses in Kenya with vital information, knowledge, and networking opportunities. More than 30 Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) under KEPSA attended the event.

The session focused on "Building a Strong Brand in the Digital Era." This session was conducted to help small businesses understand the essentials of brand building, especially in today’s digital landscape. Entrepreneurs had a chance to learn practical strategies to establish and grow their brand presence online. 

Speaking at the event, Bernard Muteti, Director of Enterprise Solutions at Safaricom PLC, emphasized that every business starts small, driven by the ultimate goal of building something of its own and achieving earning power. He highlighted key factors essential for thriving in business:

1. Purpose: The reason behind starting the business, driven by passion and survival, with a primary focus on the solution provided.
2. Resources, including financial capital, and leveraging networks to convert them into customers.
3. Community: The importance of a supportive community to help businesses thrive.

Muteti emphasized the need for businesses to embrace technology to survive in the age of digitization, affirming Safaricom's commitment to support and collaborate with them.

Mr. Levi Injendi speaking on behalf of KEPSA as a partner for the third edition of Grow your Business by Safaricom, highlighted the five focal areas that KEPSA anchors its support for the entrepreneurs, financial linkages, market access, policy advocacy, innovation and capacity building. “Today’s session is key in addressing the capacity-building pillar that not only enhances the capacity of SMEs to grow and expand their market share but also build strong brands in the current digital era,” he said.

Joram Mwinamo, CEO and Co-founder of SNBX International shared invaluable insights on the importance of branding in today’s digital landscape. He stressed the importance of conveying what a business can do for people. He highlighted the concept of storytelling as a tool for reaching out to one’s audience, Mwinamo underscored the importance of understanding one's customer base thoroughly, as not everyone is a potential customer. 

Ms. Nyandia Gachago, digital strategist at ACIM, emphasized the power of advertising and the significance of digital presence. She advocated for online advertising, emphasizing the importance of frequent exposure to emotionally connect with the audience.Ms. Gachago also stressed the power of online storytelling, urging businesses to craft authentic, relatable stories, leverage social media, and experiment with AI tools to optimize their strategies. Contemporary marketing elements include digital presence, packaging, customer service, and products.

SMEs gained intuitions on effective brand-building strategies, enhancing online visibility, and leveraging digital tools for growth. They also learned that a brand encompasses all customer experiences and perceptions of the company. The forum offered practical strategies for boosting online visibility through social media, SEO, and content marketing. Industry experts showcased how small businesses can utilize digital tools to expand their brand presence. Participants networked with peers and industry leaders, fostering potential collaborations and partnerships. Such trainings help SMEs navigate the complexities of the modern business environment.