Ruto Promises Tax Exemption and More Jobs as Kenya Celebrates Mashujaa Day
Kenyan President William Ruto has unveiled proposed tax relief and employment measures as the country celebrates Mashujaa Day, with households continuing to face economic pressures.
Speaking at the national celebration in Eldoret on Tuesday, October 20, Ruto addressed concerns about rising living costs, heavy taxation and limited employment opportunities for young people.
Under the proposed changes, workers earning 32,333 Kenyan shillings or less monthly would no longer pay Pay As You Earn income tax, potentially increasing their disposable income.
Ruto also proposed reducing land transaction expenses and import duties on mobile phones, offering potential relief to property buyers, businesses and consumers facing high costs.
The President said the measures were intended to help Kenyans meet essential expenses, including food, transportation and education, while improving their financial circumstances.
He further pledged to expand government internship programmes to help more young people gain work experience and access opportunities in the labour market.
Ruto’s broader economic plans include strengthening agricultural production, supporting industrial development and expanding the service sector to encourage business activity and generate employment.
However, the promises come against a backdrop of continued public concern over the cost of living, with hundreds of demonstrators recently protesting fuel prices in Nairobi and other cities.
The President acknowledged that electoral victories do not exempt the government from addressing citizens’ demands, highlighting the importance of delivering practical improvements to people’s daily lives.
Mashujaa Day, also known as Heroes Day, is observed every October 20 to honour individuals who contributed to Kenya’s independence struggle and subsequent national development.
During this year’s celebration, 264 individuals were recognised as national heroes, including former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who received the honour posthumously.
The proposed measures place taxation, employment and household expenses at the centre of Kenya’s national conversation as citizens await further details about their implementation.
