CIArb Kenya 3rd Mediation Conference Recap

The CIArb Kenya 3rd Mediation Conference, held under the theme “Mediation in a Changing World,” brought together a diverse group of practitioners, academics, and stakeholders from various sectors to explore the evolving landscape of mediation in today’s dynamic environment. As we navigate the complexities introduced by technological advancements, shifting societal norms, and global challenges, the role of mediation has become increasingly pivotal in conflict resolution.

Participants engaged in rich dialogue on the implications of these changes for mediation practices, emphasizing the need for adaptability and resilience in the face of new challenges.

The primary objectives of the conference were to:

  • Educational Value: Facilitate knowledge exchange on contemporary mediation practices.
  • Networking Opportunities: Showcasing the opportunities for networking and collaboration.
  • Expert Speakers: The quality and expertise of the speakers and panellists.

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ROUNDTABLE REPORT: Alternative Dispute Resolution for Small and Medium Enterprises in Kenya

1. Background and Context  Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) form the backbone of Kenya’s economy,  contributing approximately 33% of GDP and employing over 80% of the workforce outside  the agricultural sector. Despite this significance, SMEs remain disproportionately exposed  to commercial disputes that are costly, protracted, and frequently unresolved through  formal judicial channels.  The Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (Ciarb) Kenya Branch convened a multi-stakeholder  roundtable to interrogate the landscape of dispute resolution for SMEs, assess the efficacy  of existing mechanisms, and identify entry points for scalable Alternative Dispute  Resolution (ADR) interventions. The roundtable convened representatives from the Micro  and Small Enterprise Authority (MSEA), the Judiciary, the Kenya National Chamber of  Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), the financial sector, the insurance industry, and the  youth entrepreneurship ecosystem.  This report summarises the deliberations and perspectives presented by each  stakeholder group, and distills shared conclusions, identified gaps, and proposed areas of  partnership.  2. Micro and Small Enterprise Authority (MSEA) â€” Perspective  Presenters: Maureen Gachogo- Registrar.                       :Agnes Thiong’o- Senior legal officer.  2.1 Nature and Typology of Disputes in the SME Sector  MSEA’s frontline engagement with the SME ecosystem reveals that disputes within this  sector are diverse in character and frequently multi-layered. The Authority identified three  principal categories of disputes commonly encountered:  •Governance disputes: These arise within SME structures, particularly cooperatives,  chamas, and registered business associations, where disagreements over  leadership, profit-sharing, decision-making authority, and member obligations  create internal fractures. Such disputes, if unresolved, often result in enterprise  dissolution or significant productive loss.  •Resource disputes â€“ Land use: A recurring category of disputes involves access to  and use of land for business operations. These disputes frequently involve 

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