A Kilifi County Assembly member has tabled a motion in the local assembly seeking a one-year tax holiday for budding entrepreneurs in the devolved unit.

The motion, sponsored by Deputy Majority Whip Twahir Abdulkarim, aims to ease the financial burden on beneficiaries of the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (Nyota) programme, a flagship youth empowerment initiative recently launched by President William Ruto.

Twahir, who represents Shella Ward, told journalists at the county assembly buildings on Tuesday that the motion targets the 2,450 young people in the devolved unit set to benefit from a total of Ksh122.5 million Nyota Fund, and beneficiaries of similar funds.

He wants them to be exempted from paying for single business permits and other county levies for one year to give them a breathing space as they take their first steps into business.

“This waiver, if approved by the assembly, will give young entrepreneurs a breathing space they will need as they take their first steps into business,” Twahir said.

He urged the beneficiaries of the initiative to use the funds strictly for business and avoid indulging in leisure. This, he said, would make them succeed and inspire others. The motion was, however, not discussed on Tuesday due to a quorum hitch that forced the House business to be adjourned.

Twahir said the motion was part of the county administration’s commitment to empower the youth by giving them a conducive environment to do business, citing a directive by Governor Gideon Mung’aro to waive Sh300 monthly sticker fees for all bodaboda operators.”

He urged young people to seize available opportunities and submit proposals for projects requiring government support. “Our goal is to see youth-owned businesses grow. Come forward – we are ready to help you succeed,” he said.

The proposal has received widespread support from various young entrepreneurs who urged members of the county assembly to pass Twahir’s motion.

Local musician Rodgers Osiro, who leads the Osiro Music Band, said the tax relief would help sustain his band, which entertains tourists and supports 15 members.

“Music is a business with many challenges. If the motion passes, I’ll use the funds to strengthen my band. We support it 100 per cent,” he said.

Community activist Mubarak Islam Ahmed, popularly known as Obama also praised the initiative for its potential to reduce youth unemployment and crime.

“A one-year tax holiday will encourage young people to start businesses. It will also improve security because thriving enterprises can employ more youth,” he noted.

An entrepreneur Msanii Charo, who runs a pineapple and coconut distribution business said that county fees currently strain his business.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / B y Martin Mwangolo and Lynnet Muthoni