Trade Expo opens in Machakos as Chamber calls for protection of local enterprises

The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) in conjunction with the County Government of Machakos on Thursday officially opened a three-day Trade Expo in Machakos with the KNCCI President Dr. Eric Ruto calling on the government to review taxes and protect small businesses from unfair competition.

Dr. Ruto said protecting Small and Medium Enterprises and harmonising the tax regime will make the country more competitive for investment.

“We have to relook at levies and taxes so as to make our country more competitive. A food processor seeking to set up business for instance pays for 18 different licences and some of them are repetitive,” he said.

Dr. Ruto said there may rise a need for an economic referendum and called on chamber members to come out and voice their concerns when such a time comes.

Event organizer Dr. Josephat Nyongesa the Director of TJ Premier Events said the second edition of the Machakos Trade Expo was successful with 300 exhibitors pitching tent at the Machakos Golf Club.

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“This is a good Expo drawing from all sectors and it follows in the success of the first edition with our SMEs going to exhibitions outside the country,” said Dr. Nyongesa.

Among the exhibitors included the National Employment Authority (NEA), Mumbuni Engineering and Driving College,Faw Trucks and various SMEs in Finance and Agricultural sector.

Machakos County Employment Officer Geoffrey Lesayo said NEA was in partnership with Mumbuni Engineering College to register job seekers for jobs within the country and abroad.

He urged job seekers to use the opportunity to register during the Trade Expo.

Lesayo said the Authority was also working with training institutions to create internship opportunities and job linkages.

The Trade Executive Committee Member Ms Sharon Mutua , who represented the County government of Machakos said over 4000 visitors were expected to attend the Trade exhibition.

By Stephen Muthini

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