This archive report was first published on 19 December 2019.
On Thursday, the Kenyan Cabinet made significant decisions at a meeting chaired by President Uhuru Kenyatta at State House, Nairobi. One of the key decisions was the approval of renaming two public holidays.
Moï Day, which falls on October 10, will now be known as Huduma Day. This change is in line with former President Daniel Arap Moï's desire that the day be commemorated as a day of service and volunteerism.
Additionally, Boxing Day, which falls on December 26, will be renamed Utamaduni Day. This new holiday will be set aside to celebrate the country's rich cultural diversity and heritage.
The proposed amendments to the Public Holidays Act will take effect once approved by Parliament.
Other notable decisions made by the Cabinet include the approval of commercial farming of BT cotton hybrids, following the successful completion of field trials that were conducted over a period of five years.
The commercial farming of BT cotton is expected to ensure farmers earn more from the crop through increased production, and will also boost the manufacturing pillar of the 'Big Four' agenda.
The Cabinet also approved the coming into operation of the New Kenya Planters Co-operative Union (KPCU), as well as the immediate operationalisation of the Coffee Cherry Advance Revolving Fund.
Furthermore, the Cabinet approved the establishment of an inter-agency team to verify historical pending bills worth Sh40 billion within one month.
Additionally, the Cabinet discussed and approved the immediate implementation of the film incentives package, which includes a 'one stop shop' approach to licence approvals, tax concessions, and waivers of various levies for personnel and equipment.
