Bii orders reduction boda boda, matatu taxes in Uasin Gishu

Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii of Uasin Gishu has announced a reduction in taxes and levies affecting the transport sector in the region to protect operators from economic hardships.

The reductions range between 40 and 60 per cent depending on the various levies.

Govenor Bii said the move was in line with the fulfilment of his pre-election pledge to enhance the transport sector and support operators including boda boda operators.

Bii said the incentives had been designed to boost the operations of various transportation entities within Uasin Gishu County.

Bii who met with the operators said the initiative by his administration involves expanding the revenue tax base through the adoption of canons of taxation, with a specific focus on reducing taxes to serve as incentives for citizens.

"These measures are aimed at improving the affordability of tax payments and fostering a conducive environment for the transport industry in our county," said Bii.

For motorcycle operators, the monthly sticker fee has been reduced from Sh600 to Sh400 within the town CBD and township, and from Sh300 to Sh200 at the subcounty level.

Impounding charges for motorbikes have been significantly reduced from Sh9,000 to Sh1,100.

Storage fees for impounded motorbikes have been adjusted from Sh1000 per hour to Sh1,000 per day.

In the matatu sector, impounding charges for matatus have been reduced from Sh26,100 to Sh5,000.

Storage fees for impounded matatus have been revised from Sh3,000 per hour to Sh1,000 per day.

Obstruction fees have been lowered from Sh8,000 to Sh5,000.

At the same time, monthly stickers for tuk-tuks have seen a reduction from Sh2,000 to Sh1,200.

Monthly stickers for taxis have been adjusted from Sh2,500 to Sh2,200.

Bii said the reductions aim to alleviate the financial burden on operators and improve their overall economic sustainability.

"As a county, we appreciate the role played by the transport sector in driving the growth of our economy and that is why we have taken the move to work closely with all operators," said Bii.

Governor Bii emphasized the importance of fostering a collaborative environment and ensuring that the transport sector continues to play a pivotal role in the county's economic growth.

This move also aligns with the governor's vision of creating a vibrant and supportive economic landscape for all citizens.

Bii said the adjustments would take effect from February 1, 2024.