Kenyan Economist Slams Punitive Tax System, Demands Change

Kenyan Economist Challenges Tax System's Impact on Economic Growth NAIROBI, Kenya — Billow Kerrow, a respected political economist, has raised concerns about Kenya's tax system, arguing that its current focus on revenue generation is detrimental to economic growth and the well-being of citizens. In a recent interview on Spice FM, Kerrow stated, "The way the government has looked for taxes in this country has become punitive. You are looking at, we must raise revenue, you are not looking at other aspects of the action e.g., that people need to have some disposable income." Kerrow's critique centers on the lack of consideration for the impact of high taxes on individual disposable income. He suggests that a more balanced approach is needed, one that prioritizes both revenue generation and the ability of citizens to meet their basic needs. He emphasized the need for a tax regime that "does the things that they are needed whereby the people are taken care of." The interview highlights a growing debate in Kenya about the balance between government revenue needs and the economic realities faced by ordinary citizens. Kerrow's insights offer a valuable perspective on this crucial policy issue.