Traders get a reprieve as county government effects reduced tax levies

Kitale, Tuesday, May 16, 2023

KNA by Maurice Aluda

Small scale traders in Trans Nzoia County can now heave a sigh of relief following the devolved administration’s decision to reduce daily tax levies by more than a half.

A fortnight ago, area Governor George Natembeya directed the Department of Trade to scale down the daily tax levies from Sh50 to Sh20.

While announcing the proposed tax levy adjustments, Governor Natembeya had explained the move was to cushion the small scale traders from the current harsh economic realities that have unfortunately pushed several traders out of business.

The corona virus pandemic and the conflict between Russia and Ukraine have been cited as the main reasons for the current economic shocks witnessed across the globe.

Speaking to the media in Kitale town on Tuesday, Trade County Executive Committee Member (CECM) Mr Stanley Kirui announced that the County government had affected implementation of the new levies.

“This move does not only confirm the Governor's commitment toward fulfilling his pre-election pledges, but more importantly his dedication toward the creation of a business-friendly environment, suitable for development of the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) sector, which mostly comprises of Mama Mboga and boda boda operators,” remarked CECM Kirui.

The CECM described Governor Natembeya as a hard-working approachable administrator who was ready to listen and help find solutions to challenges affecting the common man.

A section of traders interviewed by Kenya News Agency hailed the move, with majority of them exuding confidence in Natembeya’s leadership.

Courtesy; K.N.A