The Central Organization of Trade Unions has welcomed the four measures announced by President William Ruto aimed at cushioning low to middle-income earners from economic pressures. The measures announced by Ruto include freeing Kenyan workers earning less than KSh 32K monthly from Pay As You Earn (PAYE) income tax.

Speaking during the Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kipchoge Keino stadium in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu county, on October 20, President Ruto said that the proposal will be presented to the parliament as from next week.

In his speech, President Ruto reflected on the achievements his administration has registered and which have given the government the space to implement the measures. “The stability we have achieved in our economy now affords us an opportunity to ease the burden on sections of our population and ensure that more Kenyans share in the benefits of our progress,” Ruto said.

COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli lauded the fact that the move will cushion low-income earners from heavy taxation, adding that more Kenyans should be added into the list of low income earners that should not be taxed.

The other measures announced by President William Ruto include the removal of 25% import duty on mobile phones which is seen as a door to employment opportunities.

”Making phones more affordable will bring the opportunities of the digital economy within reach of more citizens,” Ruto noted.

The other initiative announced is the expansion of the national internship program to accommodate 50,000 young Kenyans from January 1, each receiving a monthly stipend.

COTU cited that 25% exemption on mobile phones will help the youth develop relevant skills thereby creating opportunities in the digital space.

“Enter the digital space and explore the opportunities provided by various applications to earn a living and grow the Kenyan platform economy for their betterment,” COTU added.

APERIT FM, HII NI YETU