Invest in Africa-kenya and Sendy Host SMEs Forum on Logistics

Nairobi, Kenya: Invest In Africa-Kenya in partnership with logistics firm Sendy (an SME on the APP platform) hosted over 80 SMEs to a breakfast forum under the theme: “Optimizing Logistics Through Technology”.

The forum comprised of a speed networking session, a panel discussion and a Q&A session addressing their experiences in logistics as well as how to tap into the digitization of transport and logistics to improve delivery. The Panel was composed of Martin Ireri (Adrian Kenya Limited), Maureen Kariuki(Universal Signs Limited), Steve Biko (Sendy Limited), Sandeep Kaushik (Chandaria Industries.)

The forum was of importance since one of the biggest challenges facing SMEs is delivering their products to the customer in due time and form. However, to improve turn around time and efficiency, companies are increasingly embracing logistics operators to handle the entire supply chain, from collecting client orders to packaging to transportation and delivery.

The forum is part of the monthly breakfast forums hosted to create more opportunities for engaging APP SMEs and drive value through Business to Business networking and referral system. Through this forum IIA-Kenya successful demonstrated an offline real-time opportunity that SMEs on APP can leverage on to seal business deals with other SMEs based on connections derived from the Biashara Network.

Invest In Africa-Kenya Country Manager, Wangechi Muriuki acknowledged Sendy for their sponsorship to the event and called for more partnership with fellow suppliers in addressing issues facing SMEs. The next SME forum takes place in April.

“As IIA focuses on connecting SMEs to trade with large local and international companies; the SMEs themselves can come together, network and share available opportunities – That is the strength of the Business Ecosystem that IIA has created for SMEs in Kenya. I am glad that some business relationships and deals have been firmed today and we look forward to many stories of success from this forum.” -Wangechi Muriuki, Country Manager, IIA-Kenya.

“For many small businesses like me, transporting products from one place to another can be a nightmare and it is unfortunate that we come to learn that the hard, expensive way. Engagements with partners like Sendy as well as actually planning our logistics and embracing technology will go a long way in helping us reduce costs and deliver in time and effectively to our clients. -Peter Kea, Zenim Zest Limited

"It is very crucial that SMEs embrace technology in logistics. However, we should be careful to ensure that it is only a means to an end. Therefore, business should ensure they hire competent, customer oriented and dedicated staff.- Sandeep Kaushik, Chandaria Industries