The Chamber President Dr. Erick Rutto accompanied by the Chamber Vice President Mr. Mustafa Ramadhan , KNCCI Kakamega Chairperson Mr. Wycliffe Kibisu, KNCCI Laikipia Vice Chairperson Ms. Lucy Muchoki  and KNCCI Management this morning paid a courtesy visit  to the Senate Standing Committee on Trade, Industralization and Tourism to  deliberate on critical issues affecting the business environment in Kenya especially at the county level. The meeting was chaired by Kajiado County Senator Hon. Seki Lenku Ole Kanar

A main issue raised was the single business permit. KNCCI advocated for the streamlining of this process to enhance the ease of doing business that would benefit SMEs by reducing the red tape and operational cost.

Policies and legislations affecting the business environment were extensively discussed, highlighting the need for the senate to consider unique challenges faced by these businesses when drafting legislation.

A central topic was the current taxation system. The complexity and cumulative burden of multiple taxes and levies were identified as significant barriers. The KNCCI advocated for a simplified taxation system and a more accessible payment processes.

The conversation also focused on improving the competitiveness of Kenyan businesses in the export markets. KNCCI stressed the importance of developing policies and strategies that would enhance value addition, which could make Kenyan goods more competitive internationally.

KNCCI noted the fact that the Kenyan export has been steadily on the decline due to simple home grown challenges that could easily be addressed like high pricing of export certification, duplication of certificates  and agencies.

KNCCI also raised the issue affordable credit to SME, pending bills, removal of inter-county trade barriers and unfair competition for SMEs when it comes to dumping, unfair pricing.

On the matter of Devolution Conference, the KNCCI suggested the need to rename the Devolution Conference to “Devolution and trade Conference to incorporate more on Private sector participation.

The meeting underscored the importance of collaboration between KNCCI and the senate Committee in fostering a conducive business environment promoting industrialization, and enhancing SMEs growth. The two parties agreed that KNCCI is an important organization and would be essential in giving their technical expertise once incorporated in the Senate Committee to advise on policies and legislations affecting the business community.

It was agreed that KNCCI technical team would be invited to give their input in the following bills:

  • Price control essential commodity bill
  • Street Vendors Protection bill
  • Startup bill
  • County licensing uniform procedure bill.