By Muita Njambi
Speaking during an interview Show, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has announced a 25% tax on imported shoes.
CS Kuria said the measure aims to discourage shoe imports and support local manufacturing.
He highlighted Kenya’s potential to boost its shoe industry due to its livestock resources, which provide hides for leather production.
“This year, by the way, we are imposing a 25 per cent on shoes. If you want to buy from Italy, prepare to pay more”
Kuria cited his success in the Ministry of Trade, where similar taxes led to a clinker factory in West Pokot, creating over 2,800 jobs.
This new tax aligns with President William Ruto’s vision to bolster the local leather industry. During his Madaraka Day speech, Ruto revealed plans to ban shoe imports by 2027.
“The goal is to increase local production from 8 million to 36 million pairs annually and create up to 100,000 jobs”
Kuria has however criticized the excessive resource wastage within President Ruto’s administration. He specifically targeted the numerous seminars conducted annually.
Kuria noted that many senior government employees frequently attend these seminars, which significantly contributes to national expenditure.
“In terms of expenditure, I think there are a lot of seminars. My friend, you take your phone and call someone asking where they are. Seven out of 10 people say they are in Naivasha.”
To combat wastage, he is implementing a policy to vet travel arrangements. He has also instituted mandatory training for all civil servants.
This training, according to the CS, aims to promote living within means, cut public spending, and instil a culture of accountability and service excellence.
This policy is part of a broader strategy to enhance local industries, reduce unemployment, and foster economic growth. This is through increased domestic production and reduced reliance on imports.