Migori: Migori County Secretary, Oscar Olima, has affirmed the County government's commitment to working closely with bar and hotel management to address grievances raised by the business community. This announcement comes in response to recent protests by the Migori County Bars and Hotels Owners Association (MICOBAH) regarding increased business permit and license fees.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Association has voiced concerns over the rising costs of business permits and licenses, a trend that has continued since 2023. Olima expressed gratitude to the Hotel Association for bringing these issues to light, assuring that the County government has taken the complaints seriously and is eager to collaborate to find solutions.
"We have heard the cry of the Association, and we have taken the complaints positively and going forward, we promise to work together to iron out those grievances," stated Olima. He also encouraged the Hotels' Association Heads to address their grievances formally through official complaint letters, rather than airing dissatisfaction through the media.
Olima emphasized the importance of cooperation between the hotel leadership and the County government, particularly in the implementation of County projects related to trade and tourism. He commended the hotels for their role in creating employment and warmly hosting tourists.
On their part, the Migori County Bar Owners and Hotel Association has expressed that the increased license charges are hindering the growth of hotel businesses. The Association's spokesperson, Alfred Mdeidi, highlighted the ongoing rise in County Business Licenses since 2023 and urged the County government to engage in consultations with the Association before making any changes to licenses and permits to foster business growth.