“I’m a Gen Z. Let’s create jobs for generation Z,” said Faith Mwachala at the Diaspora University Town (DUT) workshop held at DUT site as she presented the DUT Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) plan. The comprehensive workshop brought together various entrepreneurs, innovators and investors eager to be part of the ongoing DUT project. Faith said that around 300 MSMEs and organizations will be open at DUT at the time of the first four year class of Diaspora University student’s graduation.
She also presented the DUT MSMEs integration and development approach where she emphasized the pivotal roles the MSMEs will play in job creation and economic sustainability. She made an urgent call for jobs creation on behalf of her fellow Gen Z. Persons born 1997 – 2012 are called Generation Z or Gen Z. The Kenya Gen Z are about 9 million Kenyans. Majority do not have formal jobs.
DUT MSME Plan
Speaking on the DUT MSME plan Faith said, “The DUT MSME plan is a cornerstone of the town’s economic development strategy, designed to foster economic growth and job creation. 140 plots spanning 268 acres are allocated for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) buildings. DUT envisions the establishment of approximately 300 businesses and organizations by the time the first-class graduates."
She further talked on the diversity of these enterprises, explaining the range from manufacturing and retail to professional services. She said the MSMEs will generate over 12,000 jobs. This, she noted, would account for 70% of the town's total jobs.
Faith also stated the broader impact of the MSME plan. She said that MSMEs not only support economic development but also enhance the quality of life by providing essential services. She added, “The MSMEs will make DUT an attractive place to live, work, and invest in.”
Step By Step Process to Open MSME at DUT
Faith also provided a step-by-step guide on how interested parties can establish MSMEs within DUT.
She said the process begins with one having a business in mind they would like to open or expand to DUT.
The second step is expressing interest via email sme@dut.or.ke
The next steps will involve meeting DUT’s requirements to ensure compliance with the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and other environmental regulations. If the MSME requires land, the process will include land allocation followed by the drafting of building plans. For MSMEs offering products and services within the town, founders will work with the Town Development office to understand the necessary budgets. Once these steps are completed, the financial plan will be developed in collaboration with DUT Credit Ltd.
Faith extended an invitation to all attendees, encouraging them to take advantage of the opportunities within DUT by opening their own MSMEs. She highlighted the Diaspora University commitment to supporting these enterprises so as to contribute to a vibrant economic ecosystem being developed at Diaspora University Town.
Interested in DUT MSME Email sme@dut.or.ke
