Thika Businesses Showcase Local Products at the Touch of Thika SMEs Expo 2026

The Chairman of the Thika District Business Association (TDBA), Alfred Wanyoike, has called on Kenyans and investors to visit Thika and experience the wide range of products and opportunities the town has to offer.

Speaking during the official opening of the Touch of Thika SMEs Expo 2026 at Christina Wangari Gardens, Wanyoike said the event was aimed at showcasing products manufactured and produced within Thika and the wider Kiambu County region.

Wanyoike added that the expo had brought together corporates, manufacturers, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and farmers from across Thika to display locally made products that meet international standards.

“We are showcasing products made in Thika and Kiambu County. We have corporates, manufacturers, SMEs and farmers all under one roof, demonstrating the quality and diversity of products produced in this region,” said Wanyoike.

He noted that the exhibition comes at a time when Thika is positioning itself for city status, adding that the event provided an opportunity to demonstrate the town’s readiness to become a smart city and a destination for investment.

Wanyoike said Thika was prepared to welcome both local and international investors, citing its strong manufacturing base, vibrant business community and growing economic potential.

“We want to show the world that Thika is ready for smart city status. We are also ready to receive new investors from within Kenya and abroad because the products we are showcasing here can compete in the global market,” he said.

The chairman invited members of the public to attend the four-day exhibition, which runs from Tuesday through Friday and sample the products and services on display.

“Wherever you are, come to Thika and experience what our businesses have to offer. Everyone is welcome to visit and support locally made products,” he added.

On the prevailing business environment, Wanyoike acknowledged that traders continued to face challenges, particularly due to the high cost of doing business driven by rising fuel prices and other operational expenses.

Despite these challenges, he hailed the resilience of Thika’s business community, saying entrepreneurs have continued to adapt and persevere even during difficult economic periods.

“The business environment is not very encouraging at the moment because of the high cost of fuel and other expenses. However, business people are resilient. Tough times test our ability to adapt, and that resilience is what has kept businesses in Thika and Kiambu County moving forward,” he said.

Wanyoike expressed confidence that the determination and innovation of local entrepreneurs will continue to drive economic growth and strengthen Thika’s position as one of the country’s leading commercial and industrial hubs.