The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) has urged the media to exercise fairness and responsibility in their reporting on emerging enterprises, emphasizing the potential negative impact on the economy if businesses are portrayed unfavorably. This call was made by the Chamber's second vice president, Ms. Fatma Elmawy, during a two-day workshop retreat for Chamber officials held at a hotel in Malindi. Ms. Elmawy highlighted the crucial role of the media in supporting businesses, particularly during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic, when many enterprises are struggling to survive. She cautioned that unsubstantiated reports could deter investors who are essential for business growth and economic recovery.
"The current trend of media outburst is in bad taste as it will scare away investors and result in economic downfall," Ms. Elmawy stated. Her remarks underscore the Chamber's concern that negative media coverage could undermine investor confidence at a time when the economy is striving to rebound from the pandemic's impact.
In a related development, the KICC Coast Regional Director, Hassan Wario, came to the defense of the Chamber's president, Mr. Richard Ngatia, who has been accused of involvement in questionable dealings with the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) concerning COVID-19 equipment. Wario dismissed these allegations as attempts to hinder Ngatia's efforts to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Kenya. "What we are seeing in the media was meant to stop the Chamber president from helping the SMEs in the country for their own benefit," he asserted. Wario further emphasized the importance of SMEs as the backbone of the Kenyan economy and called for collective efforts to protect their interests.
Mr. Richard Ngatia has consistently denied any connections with the firm allegedly involved in supplying items donated by Chinese billionaire Jack Ma. He has initiated legal action against certain media outlets for disseminating false reports that tarnish his reputation.
The Malindi retreat, which brought together leadership from six coastal counties, focused on strategies to revitalize SMEs affected by the pandemic. Governors from Tana River, Kilifi, Lamu, Taita-Taveta, and Kwale counties were present, underscoring the regional commitment to bolstering economic resilience and fostering a supportive environment for business growth. The Chamber's initiative aims to equip local leaders with the necessary skills and knowledge to enhance the viability of SMEs, which are vital to the country's economic recovery and growth.
