In a letter shared on Governor Mike Sonko’s
social media handles, Nairobi County has waived licensing fees for new
businesses registered by the youth and persons living with disabilities
effective 1st of February 2020.
Letter by Nairobi County Governor issuing the Executive order on waiver
The waiver is set for a period of two years (24
months) from the date of registration as earlier requested by the ministry of
East African Community and Regional development in a letter sent to the office
of the Governor, Nairobi County.
ministry of East African
Community and Regional development
Before getting the waiver, individuals are
required to provide proof of compliance with all the other professional,
occupational, health and safety standards as stipulated.
The executive order by the office of the
Governor is in line with the National Government’s commitment to Access to
Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO), aimed at creating employment for
the youth and improving Kenya’s Ease of Doing Business Index.
The country’s ease of doing business index
currently ranks at No. 56, an improvement from No. 136 in 2014 according to the
World Bank, ranking 3rd in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The Governor noted that the many licenses and
permits required by the various levels of governments are a great impediment to
the realization of the dreams and aspirations of many startups especially by
the youths.
The Ease of Doing Business reforms are geared
towards supporting small and medium businesses through reforms that impact them
directly hence increasing global competitiveness.
The cost of a single business permit in Nairobi
is Ksh. 10,000 for medium traders (5-20 employees) and Ksh. 20,000 for large
traders (21-50 employees).
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