Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) leader Richard Ngatia has called on the government to prioritize timely payments to traders, warning that delayed settlements threaten business sustainability and tax compliance. Speaking in Kisumu, Ngatia highlighted that prompt payments would prevent financial distress among small businesses and ensure they meet tax obligations, generating additional revenue for the state.
Ngatia, who is seeking the KNCCI presidency, proposed establishing a special fund to support small-scale traders, particularly in counties. He argued that such a mechanism would stimulate economic growth through job creation and financial stability. The Kisumu chapter of KNCCI endorsed his candidacy, with delegates also urging the chamber to expand its county empowerment programs nationwide.
The chamber is considering structural reforms, including renaming the national chairman position to 'chamber president.' Ngatia emphasized his focus on transforming the organization to directly benefit small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Delegates at the meeting also requested tax amnesties for cash-strapped businesses and increased capacity-building initiatives to ensure legal tax compliance.
Ngatia's bid for the presidency faces competition from Nairobi businessman Gor Semeleng'o and James Mureu. Two candidates, Laban Onditi and Stephen Mbugua, have withdrawn in his favor. The election is scheduled for two months from the date of this statement.
