Trans Nzoia Slashes Business Permit Fees as County Deepens Public Engagement on Finance Bill 2025/26

 

Trans Nzoia County has introduced major reductions in Single Business Permit (SBP) fees as part of a broader strategy to stimulate business activity, ease financial burdens on traders, and strengthen public participation in county decision-making. The announcement was made on Tuesday by Finance and Economic Planning CEC Pepela Wanjala during a well-attended public participation forum on the proposed Finance Bill 2025/26 held at the Kitale Museum.

Wanjala said the county had reviewed and lowered several permit charges—targeting small and medium-sized enterprises—to encourage compliance, spark growth, and support the entrepreneurial community. Categories affected include beauty shops, small timber yards, medium nightclubs, retail kiosks, and various small roadside establishments, many of which had previously raised concerns about high operating costs.

“These changes are meant to support our people and grow business,” Wanjala told participants. “We want wananchi involved in every step of managing their county. Your feedback will directly shape the final Finance Bill.”

The CEC noted that the county seeks not only to revise fees but also to align revenue collection systems with the evolving needs of traders, investors, and residents. According to Wanjala, Trans Nzoia aims to build a business-friendly environment while maintaining sufficient revenue to support public services.

Parallel Forums Highlight Importance of Grassroots Engagement

At a separate forum held in Kiminini, CEC for Sports, Gender, Youth, Culture and Tourism Eliud Tormoi reiterated the essential role of citizen involvement in shaping county policies. He reminded the public that public participation is a constitutional obligation and a key ingredient for effective planning, resource allocation, and accountability.

Tormoi stressed that county-generated revenue funds critical development projects, including the construction and maintenance of roads, health facilities, water supply systems, and sports infrastructure. He urged residents to offer meaningful contributions to help the county create fair revenue structures that do not hinder business growth.

“The people who will build Kiminini are those who live here,” Tormoi said. “Development depends on citizens’ willingness to support the revenue system and guide us on what is practical and fair for all.”

He emphasized that the county must continue to balance affordability with the need to raise enough funds to sustain ongoing and future development projects.

County Moves Toward Modern, Efficient Revenue Systems

County Acting Director of Revenue Ibrahim Chisaka announced that Trans Nzoia is in the advanced stages of transitioning to a fully cashless revenue collection system, which aims to eliminate leakages, curb corruption, and enhance efficiency.

Chisaka urged traders to actively cooperate with electronic payment systems and warned against a rising trend where some individuals reverse mobile payments after confirmation.

“When you reverse payments, you are not sabotaging the county government—you are sabotaging yourselves,” he said. “These funds go into development: better markets, cleaner towns, better health services, and improved infrastructure.”

He added that automation will soon cover all major county revenue streams, including markets, parking, land rates, and permit issuance.

Public Calls for Better Infrastructure and Fair Policies

Participants at both public forums urged the county leadership to address several challenges affecting business operations. They called for:

• Improved market infrastructure, including roofing, drainage, and stall organization

• Expansion of the cashless system to reduce long queues and improve transparency

• Lower daily market fees for small traders

• Enhanced street lighting to boost security and extend business hours

• Access to clean water and better sanitation facilities in trading centers

• Clear communication on how revenue is used to benefit the community

Some traders also noted that while permit fee reductions are welcome, additional measures—such as training for young entrepreneurs, credit access programs, and improved market hygiene—would further boost business vitality.

County Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusive, People-Centered Development

The series of public participation meetings demonstrated growing interest among residents in shaping the county’s fiscal policies. County officials pledged to incorporate community feedback into the final Finance Bill, ensuring that tax and fee structures reflect the priorities of citizens.

CEC Wanjala concluded by saying that the county’s commitment goes beyond drafting a bill—it is about fostering shared responsibility and trust between the government and the people.

“Our goal is not just to pass a Finance Bill,” he said. “Our goal is to create a system where residents feel heard, supported, and empowered to grow their businesses.”

As Trans Nzoia pushes forward with reforms in revenue collection, permit adjustments, and public engagement, county leaders hope the changes will translate into a more vibrant business environment and accelerated economic development across all sub-counties.