The Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), in collaboration with Twiva, has launched the third cohort of the Twende Digital Project. This initiative aims to strengthen Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) by equipping them with digital marketing skills and enhancing their online presence through social commerce.
The Twende Digital Project creates a mutually beneficial relationship where SMEs gain essential digital expertise and market access, while young people secure meaningful employment as digital marketers and social commerce resellers. According to Dr. Ehud Gachugu, Acting Deputy CEO and Global Director of Youth & Jobs at KEPSA, this model not only supports business growth but also addresses youth unemployment in Kenya.
“Twende Digital creates a powerful synergy where SMEs and young people grow together. While SMEs gain critical digital expertise and market access, young people earn meaningful, decent jobs as resellers through social and influencer marketing strategies. This win-win model fosters economic development and resilience and contributes to closing the unemployment gap in Kenya,” Dr. Gachugu stated.
The latest cohort builds on previous successes, where over 1,600 jobs were created and improved, and more than 500 SMEs benefited from digitization. The project leverages social commerce and influencer marketing to transform how Kenyan businesses engage with customers and expand their reach in the digital space.
“Through innovative tactics like social commerce and influencer marketing, Twende Digital is solving the issue of youth unemployment and transforming how businesses in Kenya reach their markets. By empowering youth as influencers and digital marketers, we are providing them with dignified work while giving SMEs a competitive edge in this digital age,” added Wangari Kinyanjui, Twiva Program Officer.
Through this initiative, SMEs will receive support in digital marketing and e-commerce, including influencer marketing, content creation, and social media management. These tools aim to increase sales conversions and enhance market reach, enabling businesses to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving digital economy.
The partnership between KEPSA and Twiva underscores a broader commitment to fostering digital transformation and economic resilience in Kenya. By equipping SMEs with essential digital skills and empowering youth with new job opportunities, the Twende Digital Project is paving the way for a more inclusive and digitally-driven business environment.
