A cross-section of Kisii town business people have complained over worsening of the business environment they were subjected to after the national government reverted to new covid-19 containment measures.
The business people in the hospitality industry lamented on massive profit losses from taxes, workers’ lay-offs and failure to settle utility bills.
Tom Openda of New Zonic Hotel disclosed a 25% profits reduction attributing it to the effects of the pandemic which led to almost closure of the business.
This happened as the county government insisted that statutory taxes including liquor licensing be honoured.
Following the spike of the coronavirus third wave, Openda recommended that the government re-introduces the tax relief regime to cushion the business from virtual collapse.
Joash Abuga of CJ Club petitioned the government to balance between the health protocols on coronavirus and businesses survival.
According to him, a situation where owners of businesses cannot meet their social and statutory obligations called for effective shot term interventions from the government.
Peter Obaigwa was of the opinion that the government open up the economy but stressed on strict implementation of the covid-19 measures.