Kenya to Reintroduce Revised Eco-L Levy Tax
Government Moves to Curb Pollution and Waste Management
A revised version of the controversial eco-levy tax will soon be tabled in Kenya’s Parliament.
Treasury Secretary John Mbadi confirmed that “about 49 measures” were being considered as part of a tax amendment bill, which aims to curb pollution and waste management at the office and household level.
Key Changes
Unlike the initial proposal, this revised version will exclude sanitary towels, the newly appointed secretary has insisted.
Companies remain in the authorities’ sights, with the minister rebuking a challenge by US beverage manufacturer Coca-Cola, which opposed the 10 percent levy on all locally manufactured plastics.
Government’s Stance
“They will tell us why they oppose it,” Mbadi said. “This country is not a dumping place.”
“If you are injurious to the environment then you must pay for helping make good the harm that you have caused.”
Other Tax Initiatives
The government also aims to collect more taxes by prolonging the tax amnesty period by six months.
The cancellation of Kenya’s Finance Bill 2024 in June followed widespread anti-tax protests, forcing President William Ruto to reassess the budget and explore alternative revenue sources.
Timeline
During the handover ceremony last week, Treasury Secretary John Mbadi said he was keen on reinstating some provisions contained in the scrapped finance bill.
On Sunday (Aug. 18), some opposition leaders urged the Judiciary to stand firm over what they term as plans to reintroduce the rejected Finance Bill 2024.
Conclusion
The revised eco-levy tax aims to address environmental concerns while generating revenue for the government. The measures are expected to be tabled in Parliament soon, and it remains to be seen how they will be received by the public and lawmakers.
FAQs
Q: What is the eco-levy tax?
A: The eco-levy tax is a proposed tax aimed at curbing pollution and waste management at the office and household level.
Q: What changes have been made to the revised eco-levy tax?
A: The revised eco-levy tax excludes sanitary towels and targets companies that manufacture locally.
Q: What is the government’s stance on the eco-levy tax?
A: The government believes that companies must pay for the harm they cause to the environment.
