Britam convened more than 100 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Thika on May 13, 2026 for its Biashara Network forum, a nationwide engagement series aimed at helping entrepreneurs navigate economic pressures and pursue growth opportunities.

The forum, held under the theme “Unlocking SME Potential and Growth in Kenya: Profits Under Pressure,” brought together business owners from multiple sectors alongside financial experts and partners including the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) and HFC Limited, according to a statement from the company.

The meeting comes as SMEs remain central to Kenya’s economy and employment. Britam cited Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) data indicating the country has more than 7.4 million micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The company added that the sector employs over 14.9 million people, contributes between 30% and 34% of Kenya’s gross domestic product (GDP), and accounts for more than 90% of private enterprises, based on KNBS figures.

Britam Chief Operating Officer Leonard Chirchir said the insurer’s approach is to pair engagement with solutions for entrepreneurs. “Thika is built on the resilience, determination, and innovation of hardworking entrepreneurs who wake up every day to create jobs, grow industries, and keep our economy moving. At Britam, we are proud to walk this journey with SMEs by providing solutions that not only protect their businesses today, but also secure a better tomorrow for generations to come,” Chirchir said.

James Muriithi, CEO of Savannah Mabati Ltd and the forum’s chief guest, told attendees that adaptation and investment decisions would shape business performance despite tighter margins. “Profits may be under pressure, but opportunity is not lost. The businesses that will define Kenya’s future are those willing to adapt, invest in relationships, embrace technology, and remain consistent even in difficult seasons. SMEs are not small players in the economy; they are the engine that powers Kenya’s growth story,” Muriithi said.

Britam said it chose Thika for its role in Central Kenya’s economic corridor, citing the town’s agricultural and industrial activity as well as its proximity to Nairobi and established entrepreneurial culture.

For Kenya’s business landscape, such forums highlight the increasing focus by financial services firms and business associations on non-credit interventions—such as training, networking and partnerships—to address operational challenges facing SMEs. In a high-cost environment, entrepreneurs typically seek support on risk management, access to finance, and business continuity planning, areas that insurers and lenders can influence through products and advisory programmes.

Britam said the Thika forum forms part of a broader nationwide initiative to support entrepreneurs through knowledge-sharing and partnerships. The company did not provide details on the next locations or dates for subsequent sessions, but indicated the Biashara Network will continue as a countrywide engagement.