The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Mombasa Chapter has launched an ambitious digital transformation programme, aimed at enhancing business visibility, fostering economic growth and positioning the coastal city at the forefront of Kenya’s digital economy.
The initiative was unveiled during the Anwani Yangu Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony, where KNCCI Mombasa Chapter Chairman Abud Jamal described the project as a landmark step towards creating a more connected, inclusive and competitive business environment.
The KNCCI Chairman reaffirmed the Mombasa Chapter’s commitment to strengthening enterprise development, enhancing competitiveness and creating a digitally empowered business ecosystem capable of driving sustainable economic growth across the coastal region.
Jamal noted that for many years, businesses across Mombasa have struggled with inadequate addressing systems, often relying on informal and confusing directions that have hindered their accessibility and growth despite their significant contribution to the region’s economy.
“Today is not merely about signing an agreement. It is about placing Mombasa’s businesses on the map, both literally and economically,” he said.
The Anwani Yangu Mombasa Business Mapping and Digital Discoverability Campaign seeks to revolutionize how businesses are identified and accessed by providing verified digital addresses, accurately mapped locations, professional business profiles and QR-code-based identity verification.
Through a strategic partnership with NextRail Africa Limited, the programme will leverage advanced technologies, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS), digital registries and automated addressing solutions, to create a comprehensive and reliable business directory for enterprises of all sizes.
According to Jamal, the platform is expected to unlock new opportunities for entrepreneurs by increasing their visibility, attracting more customers and improving access to markets, investment opportunities and financial services.
He emphasised that the initiative will particularly benefit small and medium-sized enterprises operating in areas such as Kisauni, Likoni, Kongowea, Bokole and Old Town, ensuring they enjoy the same level of digital presence and discoverability as larger, established businesses.
“Anwani Yangu ensures that every biashara, regardless of size, becomes visible, accessible and trusted. No more confusing directions. No more missed opportunities. No more invisible businesses,” he said.
Beyond improving business visibility, Jamal described the project as critical economic infrastructure that will generate reliable business data to support investment planning, enhance service delivery and inform evidence-based policymaking.
He called on entrepreneurs, institutions and other stakeholders to embrace the initiative, noting that Mombasa is steadily emerging as a hub for innovation and digital transformation. “Business is already thriving across Mombasa. Anwani Yangu simply ensures that the world can see it,” he said.
by Sadik Hassan
