National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called for legislative reforms to boost business competitiveness, combat corruption, and attract foreign investment to Kenya.
Wetang'ula said three Bills are currently under consideration; the Whistleblower Protection Bill, 2023, the Conflict of Interest Bill, 2024, and the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal (Amendment) Bill, 2024.
He said the Bills aim to increase transparency, improve procurement processes, and manage conflicts of interest to reinforce ethical business practices.
Wetang’ula noted that this law would enhance partnerships between the government and private sector to combat corruption and promote accountability.
“This would significantly increase collaborative efforts to combat corruption, promoting more transparent, accountable, and ethical business practices,” Wetang'ula said.
He was speaking at a roundtable with the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) in Naivasha.
Wetang'ula noted that these reforms, along with others targeting sectors like agriculture, health, and ICT, will drive job creation, economic growth, and inclusive prosperity.
“We must leverage the
role of the legislature to enhance Kenya's competitiveness for the creation of
jobs, wealth, and inclusive prosperity,” Wetang'ula said.
Wetang'ula in conclusion stressed that strong legislative partnerships can transform Kenya into a regional economic hub by fostering transparency, ethical business practices, and a competitive environment.
He commended the private sector for its commitment to supporting legislative efforts that spur economic growth and advocated for collaboration over court action on contentious issues.
Speaking at the same forum, Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah echoed the importance of the legislative efforts in addressing youth unemployment and economic growth.
“Our joint efforts will yield actionable outcomes impacting all sectors,
from large corporations to SMEs that sustain millions of livelihoods,” Ichung’wah said.
He acknowledged KEPSA’s vital role in policy discussions impacting SMEs and large corporations alike.
Meanwhile, Minority LeaderJunet Mohamed pointed out that high taxes, infrastructure gaps, and energy costs are major hurdles for businesses.
He urged Parliament to prioritise stable fiscal policies that encourage investment.
