Policy Implementation in the Micro and Small Enterprise (MSE) sector in Kenya since 2008

Research between 2008 and 2014 shows ongoing problems faced by MSEs in Kenya, much similar to those faced prior to 2008 despite the introduction of pro-MSE initiatives under Vision 2030. These include recurring problems around access to credit (Atieno, 2009a, 2009b; Mwangi, 2010; Odongo, 2013; Wanambisi & Bwisa, 2013; Kiboki et al, 2014), business skills development (Kimweli, 2009; Okumu, 2010; Messah & Wangai, 2011; Osanjo, 2012; Ngugi & Bwisa, 2013), marketing (Kimani et al, 2009; Kithae et al, 2012; Ruhiu et al, 2014), access to information and technology (Mosomi, 2011; Mon’gare, 2013; Kithae et al, 2013), growth and innovation (Daniels 2010; Kiraka et al, 2013), women entrepreneurs (Wawire & Nafukwo, 2010; Messah & Wangai, 2011; Mwangi, 2014) and internationalisation (Gitau & Otuya, 2014). These are evidence that MSE policy changes and initiatives in Vision 2030 have not started to reap the benefits anticipated. Recommendations by these researchers have been to advise for further policy amendments including increasing state economic support. Little is known about the problems around implementation of these pro-MSE policies to the exception of a recent work of Moyi (2014) on MSE associations. Exploring the process of policy implementation is well grounded in Western practice but rare in the African case (Juma & Clark, 1995). The seminal work of Pressman and Wildavsky on policy implementation identified implementation as crucial (Pressman & Wildavsky, 1973). Furthermore, Juma and Clark’s work on Policy Research in sub-Saharan Africa stated that ‘implementers interact with policy-makers by adapting new policies, co-opting the embodied project designs or simply ignoring new policies, hence underscoring the fact that implementers are crucial actors whose actions determine the success or failure of policy initiatives’ (p.126). This research thus proposes to adopt an implementation perspective in order to provide explanations for the observed underperformances of the MSE sector. This will contribute to a better understanding of the dynamics between policy and its beneficiaries by involving implementers.

A proposal to obtain funding for this research has been sent to Private Enterprise Development in Low Income Countries