He made the remarks in Huye District, Southern Province, where he continued his campaign activities on Thursday, June 27, 2024.
The RPF flagbearer started by thanking the citizens, especially those who gathered in Huye District including residents from Gisagara, Nyanza, and Nyaruguru, reminding them of Rwanda’s collective achievements.
Kagame urged Rwandans to vote for him on July 15, 2024, to continue the journey of building the nation that began after its liberation in July 1994.
The people responded unanimously, saying, “It’s you!” and he responded, “I agree. What convinces me is that what you choose for me, you will also do. So my task is straightforward: to move forward together.”
He continued, “You already know, the progress will continue year after year. The election date is approaching quickly as if it knows that we are all eagerly awaiting it. It’s soon! Actually, with all of you gathered here in such large numbers, it feels like the election has already concluded. Therefore, that excitement compels us to act (to vote) so that we can expedite our work of building the nation. The youth here — when I look at your numbers and other places I have been — you give hope to everyone.”
The people sang, “Continue the path you started, if you falter, you’ve made the right choice, Lord be with you.” That’s how it is.”
Kagame assured those gathered in Huye District that if they vote for him, he will return to thank them.
The RPF chairman is running against Frank Habineza, the leader of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda, and Mbayimana Philippe, who is vying for the presidency on an independent ticket. Six other independent candidates had their candidature rejected after failing to meet several requirements set by the National Electoral Commission (NEC).
The campaigns will close on July 13. Approximately 9.5 million people have registered to vote in this year’s parliamentary and presidential elections.
The Kenyan Head of State bowed to pressure to drop the Bill after angry protesters overwhelmed the police, invaded, and set ablaze a section of Parliament moments after lawmakers passed the contentious Bill on Tuesday.
The violent confrontation between the police and the young “Gen Z” protesters sadly resulted in the deaths of several people and left scores injured, prompting condemnation from the United Nations, the African Union, and several foreign diplomatic missions in Nairobi.
On Wednesday, just hours after he threatened to crack down on the “organizers and financiers” of the protests, Ruto made a surprise U-turn, conceding to the demands from the protesters and calls for dialogue from the international community.
In a televised speech from State House Nairobi, President Ruto said, “The people have spoken… I concede,” promising to engage the young people he had earlier described as “dangerous criminals” and plotters of “treasonous” activities.
“Having reflected on continuing the conversation around the Finance Bill, and listening to the Kenyan people who say they want nothing to do with this Bill, I concede.
“Therefore, I will not sign the Finance Bill 2024 and it shall be subsequently withdrawn and I have agreed with these members, that shall become our position,” President Ruto stated.
The withdrawal of the Bill, however, complicates matters for President Ruto, who has recently initiated various measures aimed at maintaining Kenya’s creditworthiness in international markets. This comes amid criticism over alleged insensitivity to the welfare of Kenyans grappling with the high cost of living exacerbated by new taxes introduced after Ruto took office.
Currently, the country’s debt burden stands at 68% of GDP, which exceeds the World Bank and International Monetary Fund’s recommended threshold of 55% of GDP. Kenya’s GDP stands at $113.4 billion.
Watch this video to learn more about the Finance Bill protests in Kenya and the impact of President Ruto’s concession.
The ongoing prepayment is based on sales made in January, February, and March 2024.
Hajara Batamuliza, Commissioner for Domestic Taxes at RRA, explained that all individuals who earned profits or registered a business in 2023 and declared income tax for the first time in March 2024 are subject to this quarterly prepayment.
“When we talk about profitable and taxable activities, there is no exclusivity. All individuals, including those who own vehicles such as motorcycles, trucks, taxis, or buses and are engaged in transporting people and goods as a profitable activity, are subject to this tax prepayment,” she said.
“There are other sectors, such as businesses with diversified operations, service providers, and banks. All activities conducted in Rwanda, where a person received taxable income,” she added.
For taxpayers under the real regime, you can make a declaration via the RRA website (www.rra.gov.rw). Click on “Declare Domestic Taxes,” fill in your TIN and password, and fill in the annexures if you have withholding taxes.
Click on “Tax Declaration,” then on “New Declaration,” and search for First Quarterly Prepayment. On the declaration form, click on the declaration number. Click on “Enter Declaration” and fill in the required information on the declaration form, click ‘compare with the declaration,’ then submit your declaration.
Micro-enterprises under the flat regime can declare their taxes by dialing *800#. Payments are made using mobile banking, Mobile Money, MobiCash, or Internet Banking.
According to the Law establishing taxes on income, taxpayers must declare and pay a quarterly prepayment tax to the account of the Tax Administration by June 30, September 30, and December 31 of the year of taxable business activities.
However, Article 8 of Law No. 020/2023 of March 31, 2023, on tax procedures, specifies that if a deadline falls on a public holiday or a weekend, the deadline is moved to the last working day prior to the holiday or weekend. This is the case for this month.
“Taxpayers should be aware that the deadline is June 28. Our staff are ready to help taxpayers at all our offices across the country. I urge them not to wait until the 28th but to come earlier so we can assist them. Once they come late, it becomes difficult,” Commissioner Batamuliza added.
Waiting until the last day can also lead to technological difficulties, which may result in late declarations and associated penalties.
Article 82 of the law on tax procedures provides that a taxpayer who fails to declare and pay tax within the time limit provided by law pays such tax and is liable to an administrative fine of 20% of the due tax if the time limit for payment extends for a period not exceeding 30 days; 40% for a period ranging from the 31st to the 60th day; and 60% of the due tax if the taxpayer exceeds the time limit for payment by more than 60 days.
A taxpayer who declares tax due within the time limit provided by law but does not pay that tax in the prescribed time limit pays the principal tax and an administrative fine of 5% of the due principal tax for a delay not exceeding 30 days; 10% for a period ranging from the 31st to the 60th day; and 30% if the taxpayer exceeds the time limit by more than 60 days.
Once plagued by the difficulty of growing crops on the saline-alkali land along the Yellow River, Xiaopo faced severe economic challenges. In 1998, the village’s per capita annual income was less than 500 yuan (about 68 U.S. dollars).
Today, Xiaopo’s fortunes have improved significantly. The village now boasts a vast number of plastic greenhouses spread over 10,000 mu (about 666.7 hectares), filled with winter jujubes.
Winter jujubes, also known as red dates, are sweet fruits enjoyed both fresh and crisp. The jujubes produced in Xiaopo are well received by the market, generating an income of over 80,000 yuan per mu – Chinese unit of area (around 666.6 square meters).
The transformation project, initiated for local farmers’ economic growth and collective economy, was guided by the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC) county committee. According to Xue Anquan, Party Chief of Xiaopo Village, jujube plantation began in the area 20 years ago.
After seven years of effort since 2001, the jujube cultivation, which started from scratch, began to thrive. Learning to grow these fruits on the saline-alkali lands around Xiaopo was not an easy task. Villagers carried out countless experiments over several years before they learned how to keep the seedlings alive.
In the following years, Xiaopo Village continued to promote the development of the industry through technological innovation and brand building, with support from the government of Dali.
Agricultural experts were employed to help farmers improve techniques for growing winter jujubes in greenhouses, including light and temperature control, and the prevention of diseases and pests.
After six years, they started to make a profit, following a period of exploration, study, and irrigation. With the help of new techniques over the past 20 years, productivity has greatly increased. The jujube industry has grown rapidly, leading to growth and prosperity for the villagers.
Once designated as a provincial-level poverty region, Xiaopo has now become a beacon of hope. Local farmers’ income has increased more than 20 times compared to 20 years ago.
Normally, jujubes can only be harvested in winter, but with greenhouses, they can be harvested in different planting seasons. Additionally, a supply industrial chain was formed for production and distribution. Today, the village’s 900 households all benefit from the project, with more than 100 vehicles and their own houses. This progress is attributed to the efforts of the CPC and poverty alleviation initiatives.
The park has around 6,000 greenhouses, and 4,000 individuals work in the jujube plantation. On an area of around 600 square meters, they can harvest 1,500 kilograms per year using organic fertilizers. The government provides policies, investments, irrigation, electricity, and infrastructure, along with subsidies for local farmers to buy greenhouses. According to Xue Anquan, local farmers express sincere thanks to the Communist Party of China and its policies.
The village has very fertile soil for the growth of jujubes and a high day-to-night temperature difference, which produces high-quality jujubes. According to Xue Anquan, they work tirelessly to upgrade greenhouse technology, maintaining a two-meter distance between jujube trees and closely monitoring the plants from planting to flowering until maturity and harvesting.
The process for jujubes to fully mature takes 110 days. A jujube tree can grow as high as seven meters, but technology has been introduced to lower the trees to fit in the greenhouse, making them easier to pick during harvest.
Jujubes were chosen for the area as they are suitable for the salty land. They are also used to produce juice and vinegar. Xiaopo Village has extended the industrial chain covering storage, logistics, e-commerce, and product processing to increase added value and ensure quality.
The success of Xiaopo Village speaks volumes about China’s countrywide efforts to alleviate poverty. With the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, the Chinese people decisively changed their destiny, achieving remarkable milestones, particularly in poverty alleviation.
By 2020, China witnessed an extraordinary pace of poverty reduction, lifting one person out of poverty every 2.24 seconds, amounting to 10 million people annually since 2012. In 2021, China declared the eradication of extreme poverty, having lifted 770 million people out of poverty since 1978, and established a moderately prosperous society.
This success was driven by a comprehensive approach involving officials working in impoverished areas, significant central government funding, and broad societal participation, contributing to over 70% of global poverty reduction. Agriculture played a crucial role in this endeavor, supported by various initiatives, including subsidies for machinery and the abolition of agricultural taxes, leading to a mechanization rate surpassing 70% for major crops.
This station was inaugurated on June 24, 2024, at Century Park Hotel & Residences in Nyarutarama, through a partnership between the hotel and IZI to further support the use of electric vehicles in Rwanda.
This station is the first in Rwanda with the capability to rapidly charge electric vehicles, boasting a capacity of 120 kilowatts, allowing it to fully charge a vehicle in 30 to 40 minutes.
Previously, Rwanda had charging stations with a capacity of 40 kilowatts, which took between one and a half to two hours to fully charge a vehicle.
To further facilitate electric vehicle owners, IZI Electric Rwanda Ltd decided to introduce this station, which can quickly charge vehicles at a low cost of 400 Rwandan Francs per kilowatt, making it cheaper compared to gasoline prices.
Vincent Mukimbiri, the Managing Director of IZI Electric in Rwanda, stated that they chose to establish this station to further ease the process for individuals with electric vehicles.
“As we expand our operations in Rwanda, we will continue to increase the number of rapid charging stations for electric vehicles. You know, someone with an electric vehicle avoids certain trips thinking they won’t find a charging station there and may get stuck,” he said.
“That’s why we want to install them everywhere along our vehicle routes across the country, and they will also be available to private electric vehicle owners to ease the process of finding a place to charge,” he added.
Mukimbiri encouraged Rwandans to embrace the use of electric vehicles as they are much more cost-effective. He highlighted that an electric vehicle owner saves about 40% compared to someone using a gasoline or diesel vehicle.
Cheung Yiu Tung Billy, Chairman of the Board of Century Park Hotel and Residences, mentioned that they entered into this partnership to assist their clients with electric vehicles and support the government’s environmental conservation initiatives.
“Rwanda is one of the African countries promoting the use of eco-friendly energy. For instance, it established a policy to reduce taxes on electric vehicles a few years ago. Only a few countries in Africa, such as Ghana, Ethiopia, and Kenya, have such policies… to me, this is a good move because we should follow where the world is heading,” he said.
IZI Electric Rwanda Ltd started its operations in Rwanda in 2023, with five electric buses operating in Kigali City. It plans to bring in 160 more buses within the next 18 months and continue building electric charging stations in various provinces across the country.
The decision to deploy Burundian soldiers to the DRC was based on an agreement between the presidents of the two countries in August 2023, valued at five billion dollars.
These soldiers were sent to North Kivu province. In the Masisi territory, M23 killed many Burundian soldiers and captured others from November 2023 to May 2024.
After being overpowered by M23 starting in November 2023, when Burundian soldiers launched an attack on the militia’s positions in Kitshanga, some soldiers began refusing to return to the front lines, explaining that they did not understand what they were fighting for. Some also complained about being forced to wear DRC military uniforms and not being provided with adequate equipment.
The Burundi government decided to repatriate the soldiers who refused to fight from November 2023 to February 2024, using planes and Lake Kivu. In total, around 274 soldiers were detained in the provinces of Rumonge, Ngozi, Ruyigi, and Bururi.
In the trial that began in May 2024, these soldiers were charged with disobeying the orders of the Head of State, mutiny, and treason. None of them had legal representation.
The court acquitted two of them, sentenced others to 30 years, 25 years, and 20 years in prison. All 272 soldiers were fined in US dollars.
During the trial in Rutana province, the soldiers, including Colonels and Majors, told the court that their actions were based on orders from their superiors. They asked the government to acquit them and reinstate them in their positions.
After being sentenced, they claimed they were unjustly convicted and announced plans to appeal the court’s decision.
In a State of the Nation Address on Wednesday afternoon, the Kenyan Head of State stated that the people of Kenya had spoken, and he had “conceded” and agreed with lawmakers to withdraw the contentious Bill.
“Having reflected on continuing the conversation around the Finance Bill, and listening to the Kenyan people who say they want nothing to do with this Bill, I concede.
“Therefore, I will not sign the Finance Bill 2024 and it shall be subsequently withdrawn and I have agreed with these members, that shall become our position,” President Ruto stated.
He announced several austerity measures to contain government expenditure, starting with the Office of the President and the Executive. These include reduced spending on travel, hospitality, the purchase of motor vehicles, and renovations.
“I direct that operational expenditure in the Presidency be reduced to remove allocations for the confidential vote, reduce travel budget, hospitality and purchase of motor vehicles, renovations and other expenditures,” President Ruto stated.
The Finance Bill 2024 sought to raise $2.7 billion in additional taxes for the government.
At least five people were shot dead by the police and a dozen others were injured in the violent confrontation in and outside parliament precincts, according to Amnesty International.
The international community, led by the United Nations (UN) and the African Union (AU), condemned the violent protests and called on the authorities to exercise restraint while also urging peaceful demonstrations.
Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga also pressured Ruto’s administration to listen to the people, especially the young people “Gen Z” who comprised the majority of the protesters.
In the spirit of the proposed dialogue, President Ruto has pledged to engage Kenyan youth to hear their perspectives and concerns.
“I propose an engagement with young people of our nation to listen to their issues and agree with them on their priority areas of concern,” he added.
The Kenyan Head of State also emphasized the need for a multi-sectoral conversation about the public debt and the country’s future.
“I also propose that within the next 14 days, a multi-sectoral, multistakeholder engagement be held with a view to charting the way forward on matters relating to the content of the Bill as well as auxiliary issues raised in recent days on the need for austerity measures and strengthening our fight against corruption.”
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In his address on Wednesday, President Ruto acknowledged that the Finance Bill 2024 is among the painful measures the government has had to take since assuming office in September 2022 to maintain Kenya’s creditworthiness in international markets.
Currently, the country’s debt burden stands at 68% of GDP, which exceeds the World Bank and International Monetary Fund’s recommended threshold of 55% of GDP.
Pressure from Kenyans last week saw the Head of State allow several amendments. These included the withdrawal of proposed 16% VAT on bread, a 2.5% motor vehicle tax increase, and a hike in the tax on mobile money transfers from 15% to 20%.
Additionally, the proposal to introduce a Ksh150 per kilogram eco-tax on plastic packaging materials, batteries, and hygiene products such as diapers and sanitary pads was dropped.
This, however, did not stop the demonstrations as protesters demanded the withdrawal of the entire Bill.
Rwanda’s presence in the ABH competition has been remarkable.The distinguished Rwandan entrepreneurs who have emerged as top 10 finalists include Francine Munyaneza, founder of Munyax Eco, who was recognized for her innovative approach to solar energy solutions; Yvette Ishimwe, founder and CEO of IRIBA Water Group, who made it to the top 10 in 2021 for her work in providing clean water solutions; Christelle Kwizera, founder of Water Access Rwanda, who secured third place in 2019 for her efforts in ensuring water access; Kevine Kagirimpundu, co-founder and CEO of UZURI K&Y, a top 10 finalist in 2019 for her sustainable fashion brand; and Albert Munyabugingo, co-founder and CEO of Vuba Vuba Africa Ltd, a top 10 finalist in 2023 for his innovative logistics solutions.
The ABH competition is more than just a grant opportunity; it offers participants a plethora of benefits that extend far beyond the monetary prize. Participants gain profound insights into their businesses and themselves through the rigorous competition process. They receive invaluable feedback from seasoned entrepreneurs and industry experts, which helps refine their business strategies. Additionally, being part of ABH means joining a vibrant community of like-minded entrepreneurs, investors, mentors, and service providers. Participants also have access to top-tier mentorship and training programs tailored to their needs and gain international recognition and exposure, helping them connect with global markets.
Jack Ma, the founder of Alibaba and the Jack Ma Foundation, encapsulates the vision of ABH, stating, “This is the hope of Africa. If we can enable the entrepreneurs there, they may change Africa. Africa’s Business Heroes is giving inspiration and courage to all entrepreneurs in Africa.”
This past April, the top 10 heroes from the past five years, along with judges and ABH partners, embarked on an exchange program to Hangzhou, China. This visit included interactions with various business units of Alibaba Group, offering invaluable learning experiences and insights. Albert Munyabugingo, founder of Vuba Vuba Africa Ltd and a 2023 top 10 finalist, shared his reflections on the trip. He highlighted three main takeaways: building strong networks with other African entrepreneurs to foster collaborations, understanding the strategies that shapedAlibaba’s development over the years and exploring ways to establish partnerships that connect Chinese and African markets.
Albert’s engagement with Cainiao, Alibaba Group’s logistics arm, provided him with critical insights into enhancing the logistics sector in Africa. He envisions Vuba Vuba as a transformative logistics company that meets the community’s needs effectively. Albert emphasized the importance of connecting with fellow ABH heroes, learning from Alibaba’s journey, and exploring partnership opportunities to forge long-lasting relationships between Chinese and African markets.
Adding to Rwanda’s prominence in the ABH initiative, last year’s final judges included Diane Karusisi, CEO of the Bank of Kigali. Her presence as a judge underscores the high regard in which Rwandan business leaders are held within the African entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The ABH initiative continues to open doors for African entrepreneurs, providing them with tools, knowledge, and networks to thrive. As part of this dynamic community, Rwandan entrepreneurs are not only gaining recognition but also driving impactful changes within their industries. The journey of empowering Africa’s entrepreneurial spirit continues, fostering a future where African entrepreneurs lead the way to sustainable development and innovation.
For more information about the ongoing ABH 2024 edition, please visit https://africabusinessheroes.org/en/ and follow ABH on X (https://apo-opa.info/3KY3OQs), LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.info/3L1Cgda), Instagram (https://apo-opa.info/3KZTXKa), Facebook (https://apo-opa.info/3ylgNE9) and YouTube (https://apo-opa.info/3YDG5bH).
Xi’an, a city with over 3,100 years of history, served as the capital for 13 dynasties. The discovery of the Terracotta Warriors in 1974 was a remarkable archaeological find, unveiling a vast underground army that has captivated the world ever since.
The Mausoleum Site Museum, a UNESCO-protected masterpiece, is one of China’s top attractions. This large-scale underground military museum, showcasing the buried army replica of Emperor Qin Shihuang, is recognized as one of the most significant archaeological excavations of the 20th century.
Representing the Qin Dynasty’s military power, these thousands of life-size figures are impressive by their size, number, and detailed craftsmanship. Today, over 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses, and 150 cavalry horses can be seen at the site.
As one of China’s most famous attractions, alongside the Great Wall and the Forbidden City, the Terracotta Army scenic spot attracts thousands of people from around the world with estimated daily visitors reaching 10,000.
The site, discovered in 1974 by a farmer digging a well, has been ranked as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987 for its marvel and need for preservation for future generations.
The Terracotta Army’s history began in 246 BC when Emperor Qin Shi Huang, at age 13, ascended to the throne. Known for unifying China, large-scale constructions including the Great Wall and more than 700 palaces around and outside central Shaanxi Province, Qin Shihuang ordered the construction of the Terracotta Army and Horses to protect him in the afterlife.
Sources indicate that the site was under construction for 38 years, requiring around 700,000 workers. The buried treasures and sacrificial objects accompanying the Emperor in his afterlife have provided significant insights for today’s archaeologists.
The Mausoleum Site Museum covers an area of 16,300 m2 with three main pits filled with more than 8,000 terracotta warriors and horses and over 40,000 bronze weapons. Pit No.1, the largest and first discovered, showcases 6,000 terracotta warriors and 35 horse-drawn chariots. Pit No.2, discovered in 1976, contains over 1,300 warriors and 90 chariots. Pit No.3, the smallest, resembles the command headquarters of the armed forces. These pits, along with accessory pits, form the core of the museum.
Upon close inspection, one will notice that every three yards, a puddle wall divides the underground army into distinct columns.
To safeguard the site, a spacious arched hall has been constructed above the pit, ensuring excellent ventilation and natural light for its preservation.
Recently, the museum has embraced modern technology to enhance visitor accessibility. An online ticket platform now allows overseas tourists from 39 countries to make reservations using their local currencies, supporting 24 languages and 29 different currencies.
With its rich history, immense scale, and continuous discoveries, the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum remains a testament to China’s enduring legacy and a beacon of its cultural heritage. The Terracotta Warriors stand as a silent yet powerful reminder of the ancient civilization that continues to fascinate and inspire people around the world.
For the first time in Kenya’s 61 years of independence, angry protesters stormed Parliament in Nairobi yesterday, causing massive destruction after lawmakers defied calls to reject the Finance Bill 2024, which seeks to raise $2.7 billion in additional taxes for the government.
At least five people were shot dead by the police and more than 31 others were injured in the violent confrontation, according to Amnesty International.
Uhuru said he was deeply saddened by the loss of lives, calling on the current administration to listen to the people to avert more loss of life.
“I come to you with a heavy heart. Saddened by the loss of lives occasioned by the current situation prevailing in our country. It is the right of every Kenyan to protest as determined as determined by the constitution we all promulgated in 2010. It is also the duty of leaders to listen to those they lead,” the former Kenyan Head of State stated.
“Leaders must know that power and authority they have is donated to them by the people. I therefore call for calm and for the leadership to show restraint and do the right thing by listening to the people and not be antagonistic to them. Violence on either side is not the answer,” he added.
As a former president, Uhuru said he had felt the weight and the difficulty of leading Kenya and called for wisdom and civility to navigate the current crisis.
“Dear Kenyans, I stand with you and I ask our leadership to embrace dialogue and speak to the people and not at the people. I pray for peace and understanding on the part of each and every Kenyan and for all of us to remember that Kenya is bigger than one of us; there is nothing cast in stone that cannot be changed,” Uhuru added.
Odinga, on his part, urged the state to “stop murdering Kenya’s children.”
He said Ruto’s administration had refused to listen to the cries of Kenyans on high taxation and is instead pushing through additional taxes amid the high cost of living.
“Matters that should have been resolved through dialogue and humility have degenerated into developments that have never been witnessed in the 61-year history of our country since Independence,” Odinga stated.
“I am deeply troubled by the violent and deadly crackdown on young, peaceful protesters exercising their right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.”
The former Kenyan Prime Minister called on Ruto’s government to suspend the Finance Bill and pave the way for dialogue with the young people, “Gen Z,” who comprised the majority of the protesters.
“Kenya cannot afford to kill its children just because the children are asking for food, jobs and a listening ear. This Bill is neither an emergency nor a life-and-death matter for the government and Kenyans,” he noted.
“Kenyans will recall that when there was a standoff in the last Parliament over calls for the reduction of tax on petroleum products from 16 per cent to 8 per cent, the then Jubilee government agreed to suspend that provision and fell back on the old Finance Act until a consensus was reached. The same can happen today, with the government suspending the current Finance Bill and continuing with the Finance Act of last year.”
He urged the East African Community, the African Union and the United Nations to immediately be seized of the unfolding situation in Kanya to save lives and the country.
“I mourn with the families that have lost loved ones and stand with them in the ongoing struggle for Justice and economic liberation,” he added.
President Ruto on Tuesday night termed the protests as treasonous and labelled the protesters as dangerous criminals. He vowed to crack down on the “organisers and financiers of the protests” to prevent a repeat of the same.
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The Finance Bill 2024 is the latest in a series of measures aimed at maintaining Kenya’s creditworthiness in international markets. Currently, the country’s debt burden stands at 68% of GDP, which exceeds the World Bank and International Monetary Fund’s recommended threshold of 55% of GDP.
Pressure from Kenyans last week saw the Head of State allow several amendments. These included the withdrawal of proposed 16% VAT on bread, a 2.5% motor vehicle tax increase, and a hike in the tax on mobile money transfers from 15% to 20%.
Additionally, the proposal to introduce a Ksh150 per kilogram eco-tax on plastic packaging materials, batteries, and hygiene products such as diapers and sanitary pads was dropped.
Other taxes that remain untouched include proposals to increase import taxes from 2.5% to 3% of the item’s value, payable by the importer at the port, as well as a 16% tax on goods and services intended for the direct and exclusive use in the construction and equipping of specialized hospitals with a minimum bed capacity of 50. Kenyans have expressed concerns that the latter could lead to higher costs for accessing critical health services such as cancer treatment, diabetes care, kidney dialysis, and other chronic illnesses.
