Updated 10 November 2026
The Micro and Small Enterprises Tribunal is a Judiciary-administered tribunal set up under the Micro and Small Enterprises Act, 2012 to resolve disputes involving micro and small businesses, including disputes over worksites and business premises allocated to them. The Judiciary says the Tribunal aims to resolve cases within 60 days. It sits at Kenya Re Towers, Upper Hill, Nairobi, and can be reached on msetr@court.go.ke or 0730 181 893.
Checked on 8 November 2026 against the Judiciary’s Tribunals FAQs (Micro and Small Enterprises Tribunal section). The FAQ does not list filing fees; ask the registry or check e-filing.
Contents: What it is · Disputes · Filing · Timelines · Other forums · FAQ
What the Micro and Small Enterprises Tribunal is
The Micro and Small Enterprises Act, 2012 created a framework to support small businesses, including jua kali artisans, traders and small manufacturers. The Tribunal is its dispute body. Like other tribunals, it is meant to be faster, cheaper and less formal than the courts, and parties can appear without an advocate.
Disputes the Micro and Small Enterprises Tribunal hears
The Judiciary’s FAQ describes the Tribunal as handling disputes involving micro and small enterprises, including those about worksites. Examples that small business owners commonly raise:
- allocation or removal from a designated worksite or market space;
- disputes between an enterprise and an association of micro and small enterprises;
- disputes between enterprises over shared premises or business arrangements.
Whether your case fits is for the Tribunal to decide, so ask the registry if you are unsure. Disputes about a shop tenancy under a controlled lease generally go to the Business Premises Rent Tribunal instead.
Filing at the Micro and Small Enterprises Tribunal
Prepare a short written statement of the dispute: who the parties are, what happened, when, and what you want the Tribunal to order. Attach your evidence, such as allocation letters, receipts, photos and correspondence. Contact the registry by email or phone to confirm the form of claim and any fee, then file and serve the other party as directed.
If your business is a partnership, check who has authority to file; our LLP guide explains how partners’ authority works in an LLP.
Timelines
The Judiciary says the Tribunal aims to resolve cases within 60 days, shorter than the 180-day target it gives for the Business Premises Rent and Co-operative Tribunals.
Other forums for small businesses
| Dispute | Forum |
|---|---|
| Worksite or MSE association dispute | Micro and Small Enterprises Tribunal |
| Shop rent or eviction under a controlled tenancy | Business Premises Rent Tribunal |
| Dispute with your SACCO | Co-operative Tribunal |
| Small debt claim | Small Claims Court |
Landlords and tenants can prepare arrears figures with our rent arrears calculator. Insurance can soften losses during a dispute; see the SME insurance guide.
Preparing a strong case for the Micro and Small Enterprises Tribunal
Because the Tribunal aims to finish within 60 days, a case that arrives organised moves faster. Before contacting the registry, write a one-page timeline of events with dates. Gather proof that you run a micro or small enterprise, such as a business permit, a business name certificate or KRA PIN, and receipts showing trading activity. For worksite disputes, collect the allocation letter or any document from the county or association showing your right to the space, photos of the site and names of witnesses who saw any removal or demolition. Keep a list of your losses, such as stock destroyed or days of lost trading, supported by records where possible.
State clearly what you want: reinstatement to a site, an order stopping an eviction, payment of a sum, or another remedy. A clear request helps the Tribunal and the other side understand whether the dispute can be settled early.
How the Micro and Small Enterprises Tribunal fits the MSE Act
The Micro and Small Enterprises Act, 2012 also created the Micro and Small Enterprises Authority to promote and support small businesses, including through worksites and associations. The Tribunal sits alongside that framework as the place where disputes under the Act are decided, so a business that has an issue with an MSE association or a worksite arrangement under the Act has a dedicated forum rather than going straight to court.
What to expect at a Micro and Small Enterprises Tribunal hearing
Tribunal hearings are less formal than court, but you should still arrive early with three copies of your documents: one for the Tribunal, one for the other party and one for yourself. Explain your case in order, referring to your timeline, and answer questions directly. The other side will respond and may bring witnesses. The Tribunal may encourage the parties to settle, and an agreed settlement can be recorded. If the matter proceeds, the Tribunal issues its decision, which you should collect in writing and keep. Ask the registry how the decision is enforced if the other side does not comply.
Micro and Small Enterprises Tribunal FAQ
Where is the Micro and Small Enterprises Tribunal?
Kenya Re Towers, Upper Hill, Nairobi.
How long does the Micro and Small Enterprises Tribunal take?
The Judiciary says it aims to resolve cases within 60 days.
How do I contact the Micro and Small Enterprises Tribunal?
Email msetr@court.go.ke or call 0730 181 893.
Do I need a lawyer?
No. Tribunals allow parties to appear in person.
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