Kiambu: Kiambu County has unveiled a comprehensive set of transformational economic measures following the signing of the Kiambu County Finance Act, 2025, by Governor Kimani Wamatangi. Through the Finance Act, the county has initiated far-reaching reforms aimed at wealth creation, reducing business costs, easing landowner burdens, and supporting youth in creative innovation.
According to Kenya News Agency, the new law aims to simplify licensing procedures, reduce taxation, and promote compliance, while supporting small traders and fostering youth creativity throughout the country. A major highlight of the Act is the overhaul of the business licensing system, whereby, instead of the traditional January-to-December licensing period, licenses will remain valid for twelve working months starting the date of acquisition. This means that traders who pay mid-year will no longer lose months of license validity, a concern repeatedly raised by business owners.
Governor Wamatangi said the reform is intended to make licensing fair, easy, and consistent. "We want to create a fair environment that supports investment and allows traders to get full value for their permits," he stated. The Act also introduces a 50 percent reduction in Public Health Permit charges for all non-food handling businesses. The licensing fee discount is aimed at easing the financial pressure on small and medium-sized enterprises that have been grappling with high compliance expenses.
Landowners will also benefit from a significant adjustment after land rates were lowered from 0.25 percent to 0.15 percent. The governor said the reforms are meant to encourage compliance and reduce the financial strain many residents face in the prevailing economic realities. The reforms have been welcomed by residents, many of whom say the changes are long overdue.
Ann Muthoni, a shop owner in Kiambu Town, praised the new measures and called them a relief for ordinary traders. "The costs of running a small business have been overwhelming, so reducing charges and allowing flexible licensing will really help us to stay afloat," she explained. In a move designed to stimulate the creative sector, the Act waives all photography and videography charges for youth and content creators operating in public spaces. County leaders say the change is meant to promote innovation, encourage digital entrepreneurship, and inspire young people to explore opportunities in the creative industry.
The Kiambu County Finance Act, 2025, is expected to reinvigorate economic activities while promoting trade fairness and easing the financial burden on residents and business owners alike.