MESPT Recognised with Africa Emerging Enterprise Support Organization Award 2026

Micro Enterprises Support Programme Trust (MESPT) received the Africa Emerging Enterprise Support Organization Award 2026 during the 11th African Agribusiness Incubation Conference and Expo (AAICE 2026), held in Bujumbura, Burundi.

The award, presented as part of the AAICE Incubation and Innovation Awards 2026, recognised MESPT’s contribution to supporting enterprises and strengthening opportunities for farmers and businesses across the agricultural sector.

The conference was held under the theme “Advancing Incubation and Acceleration Ecosystems for Job Opportunities in Africa” and brought together policymakers, development partners, investors, financial institutions, incubators and agribusiness leaders to discuss ways of creating more opportunities for businesses and young people across Africa.

MESPT was represented by Charles Nyawade, Head of Finance, who participated in a plenary session on “Catalyzing Financing and Investments for Environmentally Sustainable Jobs in Africa,” sharing perspectives on the importance of suitable financing in helping businesses grow and creating sustainable employment opportunities. Eric Njoroge, Head of Partnerships and Fundraising, participated in a plenary session on “Regulatory (Policy and Legal) Frameworks to Improve the Efficiency of Incubation Services and Support the Growth and Sustainability of Agri-SMEs in Africa,” contributing to discussions on how supportive policies and regulations can help businesses access the support they need to grow.

A recognition that reflects MESPT’s strategic direction

The recognition came at an important time for MESPT as the organisation implements its 2026 – 2030 Strategic Plan, “Strengthening the Pathway to Resilience.” The strategy places greater focus on helping farmers, small and growing businesses, and financial institutions access the finance, markets, skills and partnerships they need to succeed. Through the strategy, MESPT aims to strengthen 500 MSMEs and cooperatives, connect 375,000 smallholder farmers to markets, and create or improve 20,000 jobs by 2030.

The award therefore recognised work that is closely connected to MESPT’s continued focus on supporting stronger businesses, creating jobs and improving opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs. It also reinforced the importance of partnerships in achieving these goals. At AAICE 2026, MESPT joined other players from across Africa in sharing experiences and exploring practical ways to improve access to finance, strengthen businesses and create more opportunities in agriculture. As MESPT continues to implement its 2026-2030 strategy, the organisation remains committed to supporting inclusive business growth, expanding access to finance, strengthening market opportunities and creating sustainable livelihoods for farmers, entrepreneurs and young people.