Defending Kenyan Citizens: Why the 2024 Finance Bill Must Be Opposed

As the Kenyan Parliament deliberates on the 2024 Finance Bill, it's crucial to scrutinize its provisions and understand their potential ramifications. This bill, if passed, will significantly affect the lives of Kenyan citizens, particularly those in the middle and lower income brackets. Let's delve into the key proposed changes and analyze their negative impacts:

1. Motor Vehicle Tax: Introducing a 2.5% tax on the value of motor vehicles at the time of insurance issuance will burden vehicle owners, many of whom already struggle with high costs of ownership and maintenance. This tax will disproportionately affect individuals who rely on vehicles for their livelihoods, such as small business owners and public transport operators.

2. Taxation of Digital Marketplace Income: Taxing income from digital marketplaces and content monetization may stifle innovation and entrepreneurship in the digital sector. Small-scale content creators and digital entrepreneurs will bear the brunt of this tax, hindering the growth of Kenya's digital economy.

3. VAT Amendments: The proposed amendments to the VAT Act, including the removal of exemptions on financial services and betting, gaming, and lotteries, will lead to increased costs for consumers. This will particularly impact low-income individuals who rely on financial services and engage in betting as a source of income.

4. Excise Duty Increases: The increase in excise duty rates on services such as money transfer, betting, and digital lending will raise the cost of these essential services for ordinary Kenyans. Additionally, the extension of the timeline for excise duty payments by alcoholic beverage manufacturers may lead to cash flow challenges for small-scale producers.

5. Tax Procedures Act Amendments: The proposed amendments to the Tax Procedures Act, including an increase in the timeframe for KRA objection decisions and the exclusion of weekends and public holidays from statutory timelines, may result in delays and bureaucratic hurdles for taxpayers.

The cumulative effect of these proposed tax changes will exacerbate the financial burden on Kenyan citizens, hinder economic growth, and widen existing inequalities. It's imperative for legislators to recognize the adverse consequences of this bill and prioritize the interests of the people they represent.

To the members of the Kenyan Parliament and the Ruto Administration, I issue a stern warning: passing the 2024 Finance Bill in its current form will betray the trust of the Kenyan people and inflict irreparable harm on the country's economic and social fabric. It is incumbent upon you to reject regressive tax measures and pursue policies that promote inclusive growth, protect the most vulnerable, and uphold the principles of social justice.

The fate of millions of Kenyan citizens hangs in the balance. Choose wisely, for history will judge your actions accordingly.

Kenya's Alleged Economic Growth: Zackayo's Facade of Prosperity Masking Reality

In the ever-evolving landscape of global economics, the narrative of growth and prosperity often becomes a battleground for political rhetoric and governmental agendas. Kenya, a country with immense potential and promise, finds itself embroiled in a paradoxical tale of alleged economic growth juxtaposed against the stark realities of regressive taxation, business closures, and widespread economic distress. As the government touts a purported 5.6% GDP growth in 2023, it becomes increasingly evident that this narrative serves as little more than a veil to conceal the failures of leadership and policy implementation.

Kiharu Member of Parliament Ndindi Nyoro's proclamation that Kenya's economy outpaced that of economic powerhouses like China and the United States in 2023 raises eyebrows and questions alike. How could a nation burdened by regressive taxation policies since 2022, policies that have shuttered businesses and left citizens struggling to make ends meet, possibly experience such astronomical growth? The assertion of Kenya's economic prowess, championed by figures like Nyoro, not only lacks credibility but also exposes the dissonance between governmental narratives and ground realities.

Nyoro attributes this supposed economic boom to the policies enacted by President William Ruto's regime, painting a picture of legislative prowess and economic acumen. However, such claims fail to withstand scrutiny when confronted with the harsh truths of economic stagnation and decline experienced by businesses and individuals across the nation. Instead of fostering an environment conducive to growth and prosperity, the regime's policies have only served to exacerbate existing challenges, further widening the gap between the rich and the impoverished.

Moreover, projections indicating a slowdown to 5% GDP growth in 2024 serve as a sobering reminder of Kenya's economic fragility. While Kenya grapples with tepid growth rates, neighboring countries like Uganda are implementing proactive measures aimed at bolstering revenue generation and economic resilience. This divergence underscores the inadequacy of Kenya's economic policies and the urgent need for comprehensive reform.

The discrepancy between government narratives and ground realities begs the question: are the GDP growth figures touted by the Kenyan government truly reflective of the economic landscape, or are they manipulated to serve political agendas? Such questions necessitate a deeper examination of Kenya's economic trajectory and the methodologies employed in calculating GDP growth rates.

The Kenyan people deserve transparency and accountability from their government, especially in matters as critical as economic prosperity. Instead of perpetuating illusions of growth and prosperity, the government must acknowledge its failures and take decisive action to address the underlying issues plaguing the economy.

It is imperative to scrutinize the sources and methodologies behind GDP growth figures to ensure their accuracy and reliability. Only through honest reflection and meaningful reform can Kenya pave the path towards genuine economic prosperity and inclusive growth.

In conclusion, Kenya's alleged economic growth in 2023 is a facade that obscures the harsh realities of regressive taxation, economic distress, and governmental incompetence. It is time to unveil the economic mirage and demand accountability from those in power. The road to true prosperity lies not in political charades but in genuine reform and a commitment to serving the best interests of all Kenyan citizens.

UK EMPLOYMENT LAW: Unfair Dismissal

Within the UK's employment law, unfair dismissal is one area that interests me a lot. This is because it involves the protection of employees from termination without just cause. In essence, the balance between employee rights protection and providing employers with the flexibility to manage their workforce is a central theme in the UK employment law.[1] Similarly, this area of employment law is interesting due to the complexities and nuances that come with it. According to Cabrelli, it involves nuanced and complex legal principles, for instance, the determination of whether or not a dismissal is fair relies on different factors, including the circumstances of the case, the procedure followed by the employer and the reasons for dismissal.[2] This makes unfair dismissal a challenging yet intellectually stimulating area of law. Furthermore, it is a dynamic area with a substantial and continually changing body of case laws. This is because the interpretation and application of law in this area are greatly shaped by the decisions of higher courts and tribunals, which provide a rich, diverse source of precedence and legal arguments.[3] Last and perhaps more importantly, this area has a human element, dealing with real individual’s lives and livelihoods.

Consequently, the developments in this area of law have been marked by evolving workplace practices, legislative changes and legal rulings. First, in terms of changing workplace practices, the shift to hybrid and remote work models has raised new issues concerning employment practices and the application of unfair dismissal laws.[4] For instance, employers have had to navigate issues associated with performance monitoring and how to handle disciplinary issues to ensure dismissals are fair. Similarly, growing awareness of mental health issues has compelled employment tribunals to take into account how mental health impacts unfair dismissal claims.[5] However, the COVID-19 pandemic also saw the introduction of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (furlough) to help employers impacted by coronavirus to retain their employees, bringing unique considerations and challenges to unfair dismissal cases.[6]

Secondly, in terms of legislative changes, the UK government introduced the Good Work Plan in 2018 following the 2017 Review of Modern Working Practices by Tylor and colleagues. This plan’s main aim was to improve the rights of workers and clarify employment statuses.[7] This included measures like extending the right to a written statement of terms and conditions to every employee to ensure fair treatment in the workplace. It also increased penalties for employers who commit aggravated breaches of employment law. Similarly, another legislative change was the introduction of parental bereavement leave and pay in 2020, providing parents with the right to two weeks' leave.[8] This would apply in circumstances where they have suffered a stillbirth after 24 weeks of pregnancy or lost a child under the age of 18. Therefore, this can impact the consideration of dismissal under such situations.

Thirdly, when it comes to legal rulings, one of the most prominent rulings is Uber BV v Aslam (2021), where the Supreme Court determined the employment status of Uber drivers.[9] In its ruling, the court stated that Uber drivers were not independent contractors but workers and thus entitled to basic employment rights. These rights included protection from dismissal without just cause. This ruling greatly affected the gig economy, forcing the sector’s employers to re-examine their worker classification and overall employment practices. There were also other earlier rulings, such as Royal Mail Group Ltd v Jhuti (2019), where the court ruled that a dismissal would be unfair if based on manipulated evidence from another manager.[10] In Independent Workers Union of Great Britain (IWGB) v RooFoods Ltd (t/a Deliveroo) (2017), the court ruled that Deliveroo riders were not employees but independent contractors, highlighting the importance of the right to substitution when determining employment status.[11] In its ruling in Autoclenz Ltd v Belcher (2011), the Supreme Court stated that car valeters were employees rather than independent contractors and pointed out that tribunals need to look past the written contract to the reality of the working relationship, including factors like mutual obligations, integration, and control.[12] Similar findings were also made in Pimlico Plumbers Ltd v Smith (2018), where the court not only ruled that the plaintiff was a worker but also emphasised the need to consider personal service and the extent of control an employer exercises.[13]

However, employment tribunals have refined the interoperation of unfair dismissal laws. This can be observed in cases such as Addison Lee Ltd v Mr C Gascoigne (2018), where the Employment Appeal Tribunal ruled that private hire drivers were workers, not independent contractors.[14] This aligns with the principles created by earlier cases as it emphasised the importance of personal service and control in determining worker status. Similar rulings were made in Dewhurst v CitySprint UK Ltd (2017), where the tribunal emphasised the actual working conditions and the degree of control in determining employment status.[15]

In conclusion, unfair dismal is an interesting area of UK law due to its complexities and nuances and importance in employee protection. However, it has also experienced various changes and influences including hybrid and remote work models, awareness of mental health issues, and the introduction of the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (furlough). It has also undergone several influential legislation like the Good Work Plan 2018 and parental bereavement leave 2018 and legal changes like Royal Mail Group Ltd v Jhuti (2019), among others.

      Table of legislations

Work Plan 2018

Parental Bereavement Leave 2018

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (furlough) 2020.

                                                      Table of Case Laws        

Addison Lee Ltd v Gascoigne [2018] UKEAT/0289/17

Autoclenz Ltd v Belcher [2011] UKSC 41

Dewhurst v Citysprint UK Ltd ET/220512/2016 (05 January 2017)

Independent Workers Union of Great Britain (IWGB) v RooFoods Ltd (t/a Deliveroo) (2017) 11 WLUK 313

Pimlico Plumbers Ltd v Smith [2018] UKSC 29

Royal Mail Group Ltd v Jhuti [2019] UKSC 55

Uber BV v Aslam [2021] UKSC 5

 

 

References

Bogg, A. 2018. The Common Law Constitution at Work: R (on the application of UNISON) v Lord Chancellor. The Modern Law Review, 81(3), pp.509-526. 

Cabrelli, D. 2020. Employment Law in Context.

Collins, P. M. 2022. Putting Human Rights to Work: Labour Law, the ECHR, and the Employment Relation. Oxford University Press.

Davidov, G., and Eshet, E. 2015. Intermediate Approaches to Unfair Dismissal Protection. Industrial Law Journal, 44(2), pp.167-193. 

Ford, M. 2018. Employment Tribunal Fees and the Rule of Law: R (Unison) v Lord Chancellor in the Supreme Court. Industrial Law Journal, 47(1), pp.1-45. 

Mantouvalou, V. 2008. Human Rights and Unfair Dismissal: Private Acts in Public Spaces. The Modern Law Review, 71(6), pp.912-939. 

Taylor, M. 2017. Good work: The Taylor review of modern working practices.

 

---

[1] Virginia Mantouvalou, "Human Rights and Unfair Dismissal: Private Acts in Public Spaces," The Modern Law Review 71, no. 6 (2008)

[2] David Cabrelli, Employment Law in Context (2020)

[3] Alan Bogg, "The Common Law Constitution at Work: R (on the application of UNISON) v Lord Chancellor," The Modern Law Review 81, no. 3 (2018)

[4] Philippa M. Collins, Putting Human Rights to Work: Labour Law, the ECHR, and the Employment Relation (New York: Oxford University Press, 2022)

[5] M. Taylor, Good work: The Taylor Review of modern working practices (2017)

[6] G. Davidov and E. Eshet, "Intermediate Approaches to Unfair Dismissal Protection," Industrial Law Journal 44, no. 2 (2015)

[7] M. Taylor, Good work: The Taylor Review of modern working practices (2017)

[8] Michael Ford, "Employment Tribunal Fees and the Rule of Law: R (Unison) v Lord Chancellor in the Supreme Court," Industrial Law Journal 47, no. 1 (2018)

[9] Uber BV v Aslam [2021] UKSC 5

[10] Royal Mail Group Ltd v Jhuti [2019] UKSC 55

[11] Independent Workers Union of Great Britain (IWGB) v RooFoods Ltd (t/a Deliveroo) (2017) 11 WLUK 313

[12] Autoclenz Ltd v Belcher [2011] UKSC 41

[13] Pimlico Plumbers Ltd v Smith [2018] UKSC 29

[14] Addison Lee Ltd v Mr C Gascoigne: UKEAT/0289/17/LA

[15] Dewhurst v Citysprint UK Ltd ET/220512/2016 (05 January 2017)

 

Flynn Group, Disney and Pinterest:

Navigating the Dynamic Terrain of Finance: A Tale of Challenges and Triumphs.

In the labyrinth of the financial world, where every turn presents a new challenge or opportunity, Flynn Group, Disney, and Pinterest navigate through tumultuous waters with a blend of resilience, innovation, and strategic prowess. As we delve into the latest developments, three distinct narratives emerge, showcasing the unique nature of the financial landscape: the challenges faced by Flynn Group, the resounding success of Disney, and the overarching resilience of Pinterest that defines this ever-evolving domain.

Adversity Breeds Innovation

In the wake of unprecedented global challenges, Flynn Group finds itself grappling with adversities that test the very core of its resilience. Whether it's the aftermath of a global pandemic, economic downturns, or geopolitical instabilities, these challenges demand agility and adaptability. For instance, traditional brick-and-mortar retailers have been forced to reimagine their business models amidst the e-commerce boom, embracing digital transformation to stay afloat.

(Photo courtesy of Flynn Group)

Furthermore, sectors like hospitality and travel have borne the brunt of restrictions and changing consumer behavior. The hospitality industry, in particular, faced a seismic shift as travel restrictions and health concerns prompted a drastic reduction in bookings. From boutique hotels to international chains, the need to innovate became paramount, with emphasis placed on contactless services, enhanced hygiene protocols, and diversified revenue streams.

The Triumph of Innovation and Resilience

Amidst the turmoil, Disney has emerged triumphant, showcasing the transformative power of innovation and resilience. Technology firms, in particular, have thrived in this volatile landscape, capitalizing on the accelerated digital adoption fueled by remote work and changing consumer preferences. Companies specializing in cloud computing, e-commerce, and digital entertainment witnessed unprecedented growth, as the demand for online services surged.

(Photo courtesy of Disney)

Moreover, the financial sector itself witnessed remarkable milestones, with fintech firms revolutionizing the way we manage, invest, and transact money. From mobile payment platforms simplifying transactions to robo-advisors democratizing investment opportunities, fintech companies have reshaped the financial ecosystem, offering convenience and accessibility like never before.

The Challenge of Intense Competition

However, amidst the success stories, challenges persist, exemplified by Pinterest's recent struggles in the digital advertising space. The company's weak revenue forecast and subsequent share slump underscore the intense competition from larger social media platforms like TikTok and Meta Platforms' Facebook and Instagram. Despite efforts to innovate and expand its user base, Pinterest faces an uphill battle in securing advertising dollars amidst dominant players with broader reach and higher engagement rates.

(Photo courtesy of Pinterest)

According to Reuters, ad spending in the shopping category, generally a significant advertiser in the quarter, grew by less than 1% sequentially. Meanwhile, ad spend from software and gaming categories in the U.S. saw sequential increases of 34% and 22%, respectively, in the fourth quarter for Pinterest. Rival Snap also missed Wall Street estimates for quarterly revenue, indicating broader challenges in the digital advertising space.

Embracing the Dichotomy

The dichotomy between adversity and success underscores the multifaceted nature of the financial world, where challenges coexist with opportunities, and setbacks pave the way for innovation. Amidst the turbulence, companies are compelled to reassess their strategies, pivot their business models, and embrace collaboration and innovation to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

As showcased by Flynn Group's exploration of a majority stake sale, Disney's strategic investment in Epic Games, and Pinterest's struggles in the digital advertising space, the financial world remains dynamic and unpredictable. However, it is through resilience, innovation, and strategic partnerships that these companies navigate through challenges and achieve remarkable milestones, shaping the future of finance and ushering in a new era of growth and prosperity.

Perhaps the question is, how might the contrasting trajectories of Flynn Group's potential sale, Disney's strategic investments, and Pinterest's struggles in the digital advertising space collectively shape the future landscape of the financial world, and what implications do they hold for investors, businesses, and consumers alike?

 

Flynn Group Explores Sale: A positive outlook.

What does a $5 bln sale mean to the financial world? 

Earlier today I can across an interest news about the potential Flynn Group's bid sale that will definatel shake the financial world. Flynn Group, the largest franchisee operator of restaurants and fitness clubs globally, is considering a majority stake sale potentially exceeding $5 billion, with Bank of America leading the sale process. Private equity firms and sovereign wealth funds are among potential suitors. Existing investors, including Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan and Main Post Partners, might sell part of their stakes but remain invested. Flynn Group's management, significant shareholders themselves, may follow suit. Founded in 1999 by Greg Flynn, the company operates over 2,600 establishments generating $4.5 billion in annual sales.

This is a significant event in the finance world—the potential sale of Flynn Group. The reported valuation exceeding $5 billion reflects the company's substantial size and market presence. The involvement of renowned financial institutions like Bank of America and potential interest from private equity firms and sovereign wealth funds indicate the magnitude of the deal. 

Unemployed and Totally Burned out.

Why are unemployed Kenyans feeling the burnout? 

                                                (Credit: Alamy Stock Photo)

In recent times, Kenya has witnessed a surge in unemployment rates, leaving a growing number of its citizens grappling with the harsh realities of joblessness. What's particularly concerning is the rising phenomenon of burnout among the unemployed population. This article delves into the reasons why unemployed Kenyans are feeling the burnout, exploring the economic, social, and psychological factors that contribute to this distressing trend.

One of the primary contributors to the burnout experienced by unemployed Kenyans is the daunting economic challenges they face. The lack of job opportunities, coupled with the high cost of living, creates a precarious situation for those without a stable income. As they struggle to make ends meet, stress and anxiety mount, leading to burnout.

Also seeThe Evolution of Income: Online Work vs. Traditional Employment in Kenya.
In Kenya, where the informal sector plays a significant role in employment, the pandemic and economic downturn have disproportionately affected small businesses, resulting in widespread job losses. With limited government support and a competitive job market, unemployed individuals find themselves in a constant state of financial uncertainty, intensifying the burnout experience.

                                (Image courtesy of The People Daily)

Beyond economic hardships, unemployed Kenyans face the weight of societal expectations and perceptions. In a culture where one's worth is often tied to their professional success, being unemployed can trigger feelings of shame and inadequacy. The societal stigma surrounding joblessness exacerbates the mental health challenges that individuals already face.

Mental health remains a topic often overlooked in Kenya, with societal attitudes contributing to the stigmatization of seeking professional help. The mental toll of unemployment is profound, leading to increased rates of depression and anxiety. The fear of being judged and the struggle to maintain a positive self-image amid societal pressures amplify the burnout experienced by the unemployed population.

See Ruto's ZAKAYO-Taxation: The Failure of "mama-mboga" and Wheelbarrow Economics.

There is also the issue of uncertain future and diminished self-esteem. The lack of a clear path forward and the uncertainty surrounding future employment prospects contribute significantly to burnout. Many unemployed individuals find themselves stuck in a cycle of job applications, interviews, and rejections, leading to a diminished sense of self-worth and purpose.

The constant uncertainty about when their situation might improve takes a toll on mental well-being. The absence of structured routine and defined goals that employment often provides can leave individuals feeling adrift, further intensifying burnout. As the days turn into weeks and months of unemployment, the emotional toll on self-esteem becomes increasingly burdensome.

                                        (Photo credit: Campusbiz Kenya)
Furthermore, in a rapidly evolving job market, staying relevant to current skills is crucial for employability. However, unemployed Kenyans often face barriers to accessing skill development opportunities. Limited resources, both financial and infrastructural, hinder their ability to acquire new skills and stay competitive in the job market.

This lack of access to training programs and educational resources compounds the challenges of job seekers. It not only limits their chances of finding employment but also contributes to a sense of stagnation and hopelessness, intensifying burnout. Bridging the gap between skill development initiatives and the unemployed population could be a crucial step in addressing this aspect of burnout.

Last but not least, while individual efforts are undoubtedly important, systemic changes and support structures play a vital role in alleviating the burnout experienced by unemployed Kenyans. Government initiatives to boost employment, provide financial assistance, and invest in education and skill development can have a significant impact. Additionally, community support and destigmatization of unemployment are essential for creating an environment where individuals feel comfortable seeking help. Establishing counseling services and mental health awareness programs can address the psychological toll of unemployment, offering much-needed support during challenging times.

In conclusion, the burnout experienced by unemployed Kenyans is a multifaceted issue rooted in economic struggles, societal pressures, mental health challenges, and a lack of access to essential resources. Recognizing and addressing these factors is crucial for mitigating the adverse effects of unemployment on individuals and the broader society.

Moving forward, a comprehensive approach that combines governmental support, community initiatives, and individual resilience is necessary to break the cycle of burnout. By fostering an environment that values individuals irrespective of their employment status and by providing the necessary resources for skill development and mental health support, Kenya can pave the way for a more resilient and empowered workforce.

Atwoli: The Turncoat or The Master of Irony?

It seems a few years of daliance and romance with the Ruto administration is coming to an end, or is it?

(Image courtesy of x.com)

In the realm of trade unions, where the battle cry is often for the rights and welfare of the hardworking citizens, one man has managed to turn the narrative into a tragicomedy of epic proportions. Francis Atwoli, the head honcho of Kenya's Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU), has embarked on a journey that can only be described as a rollercoaster of contradictions.

                                            (Image courtesy of Citizen TV)

For over three years, Atwoli has been the government's cheerleader, waving pom-poms in support of policies that have left workers in the lurch. His sudden metamorphosis into the workers' messiah reeks of irony and leaves many questioning his motives.

One cannot forget the Finance Act of 2023, a legislative monstrosity that introduced regressive taxation, sending shockwaves through the economy. Atwoli, in a stunning display of loyalty to the powers that be, threw his weight behind this disastrous policy. The very man entrusted with safeguarding the interests of workers appeared to have developed a peculiar taste for biting the hand that feeds the labor force.

Also see Ruto's ZAKAYO-Taxation: The Failure of "mama-mboga" and Wheelbarrow Economics.

Atwoli's support for the government's regressive taxation didn't just stop at applause from the sidelines. He actively championed these policies, policies that resulted in job losses and inflated the cost of living for ordinary Kenyans. It's almost as if he believed workers were yearning for a heavier burden on their shoulders.

However, in a plot twist that would make even the most seasoned scriptwriter raise an eyebrow, Atwoli has now pivoted to a stance that seemingly opposes the very government he was singing praises for not so long ago. His sudden criticism of the government's irresponsible borrowing practices, accusing them of plunging the country into a debt hole, has left many scratching their heads.

One cannot help but wonder: Is Atwoli a turncoat, or is he the ultimate master of irony? It takes a special kind of skill to flip-flop so seamlessly between endorsing detrimental policies and donning the cape of a workers' advocate. From giving Azimio coalition that Omanyala-sprint to go and kiss the president's cheeks to now calling out the president? Who is Atwoli? Do we really know this Man?

In yesterday's tirade against the government, Atwoli pointed fingers at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, claiming their loans come with conditions that make life unbearable for Kenyans. This newfound concern for the well-being of ordinary citizens seems almost disingenuous, coming from a man who was complicit in endorsing policies that pushed them to the brink.

Accusing the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) of intentionally devaluing the Kenyan shilling, Atwoli now paints himself as a defender of economic stability. It's a narrative that clashes violently with his past support for measures that contributed to the very economic turmoil he is now decrying. 

    Also read Navigating Headwinds: Kenya's Best-Performing Industries Amidst Taxation Challenges.

While releasing a report titled 'Turning The Tide On Kenya’s Economy: Recovery and Prosperity Through The Workers’ Lenses,' Atwoli suddenly became the voice of reason, highlighting how current taxation policies have negatively impacted Kenyan employees. It's as if he just discovered the consequences of the policies he previously championed.  I look forward to reading the content of the COTU report though.

In a twist that borders on the absurd, Atwoli questioned the government's wisdom in borrowing, conveniently forgetting his earlier endorsement of unmitigated borrowing. It's almost as if he expects Kenyans to suffer the consequences of policies he once passionately supported without any memory of his prior stance.

The call for economists to advise the government on the dangers of over-borrowing now sounds like a desperate attempt to distance himself from the chaos he helped create. It's a classic case of closing the barn door after the horses have bolted. As he proposes stakeholder engagement and urgent solutions to lower the cost of living, one can't help but marvel at the audacity of this theatrical performance. It's a comedy of errors, with Atwoli playing the lead role of a turncoat turned savior.

In the grand finale of this tragicomedy, one can't help but wonder if Atwoli will continue to dance on the tightrope of irony or if he'll finally choose a side and stick to it. Until then, the workers of Kenya remain an unwitting audience to this theatric spectacle of contradictions.

Can you imagine Atwoli's inner monologue?  

The Evolution of Income: Online Work vs. Traditional Employment in Kenya.

Is it really feasible for all of us?

Today I was wondering, with the tough economic times, how can one really make money in Kenya right now? The question is, how can one make a decent living in Kenya? We have a seemingly clueless government with the worst economic blueprint and the most regressive tax regime. Industries are closing down, others are downscaling their operations and laying off employees, while others are barely hanging on. While some may argue that the government is working to improve things, the reality is that many people are unemployed today more than any other time since 2016. To make matters worse, the prospects of getting employment right now seems to be dismal. For instance, if you do a Google search about how to make money in Kenya right now, almost all the answers will point you toward "making money online." It's like there is no money offline anymore, but why?

                                                                            (image courtesy of instasend)

In the face of tough economic times, the search for viable income sources in Kenya has taken a digital turn. Online work has become a prevailing trend, offering opportunities for income generation in a landscape where traditional industries are struggling. However, the shift to the digital realm is not without its challenges, and it raises crucial questions about accessibility and feasibility for everyone.

seehttps://ecofintechfuturist.blogspot.com/2024/01/navigating-headwinds-kenyas-best.html

Over the past few years, the digital revolution has redefined the way we work and earn money. Kenya, like many other nations, has witnessed a surge in online work opportunities. Freelancing platforms, remote jobs, and e-commerce ventures have become attractive alternatives for individuals seeking financial stability. The allure of flexibility, global market access, and the potential for self-employment have fueled the migration from traditional employment to the online sphere.

Challenges in Traditional Industries

The traditional job market in Kenya has faced considerable challenges, ranging from economic instability to policy issues. Industries have downsized, and many businesses have had to shut their doors, leaving employees without job security. The government's economic policies and regressive taxation have further exacerbated the situation, pushing individuals to explore alternative avenues for income.

Industries that were once pillars of employment, such as manufacturing and agriculture, are grappling with various challenges, making it difficult for workers to find stable and well-paying jobs. This backdrop has created fertile ground for the rise of online work as an escape route for those seeking financial stability.

The appeal of online opportunities

Online work presents a host of advantages that make it attractive, especially in uncertain economic times. Here are some factors contributing to the shift:

1. Global Reach:

   • Online platforms allow individuals to tap into a global market, expanding their potential client or customer base beyond local constraints.

2. Flexibility:

   • Many online jobs offer flexibility in terms of working hours and location, enabling individuals to balance work and personal commitments.

3. Skill-Based Opportunities:

   • The digital space rewards a diverse set of skills, allowing individuals to monetize talents that may have been underutilized in traditional settings.

4. Entrepreneurial Ventures:

   • E-commerce and digital entrepreneurship enable individuals to create and manage their businesses, fostering a spirit of independence.

What about the digital divide?

While the allure of online work is undeniable, it is crucial to recognize the digital divide that exists. Not everyone has easy access to the internet or possesses the skills required for online ventures. In a country where infrastructure challenges persist, relying solely on online opportunities can exclude a significant portion of the population.

Moreover, not all traditional skills seamlessly translate into the digital space. Industries like manufacturing and agriculture, deeply ingrained in the Kenyan economic fabric, require practical skills that may not find a direct parallel online. The shift to a digital economy raises questions about the inclusivity of this transition and its impact on those who cannot easily adapt.

The accessibility challenge

The accessibility challenge extends beyond internet availability. Online work often demands a certain level of digital literacy and specialized skills. For individuals accustomed to traditional industries, acquiring these skills can be a daunting task. The rapid pace of technological advancement further widens the gap, making it difficult for some to catch up.

Here comes the duality of income generation!

In navigating the economic landscape in Kenya, the duality of income generation is evident. Online work provides a lifeline for many, offering a way out of the limitations imposed by traditional industries. However, it is not a panacea for everyone. The transition to a digital economy raises questions about inclusivity and the fate of those left behind.

As we ponder the future of work in Kenya, we must confront the reality that online opportunities are not universally accessible. The challenges of digital literacy, internet access, and the adaptability of skills create a dichotomy where some thrive in the digital age while others struggle to keep up.

Now what?

In the end, the question remains: In a country undergoing a seismic shift in its economic landscape, how do we ensure that the benefits of online work are accessible to all, leaving no one behind? The answer may lie in a balanced approach that leverages the strengths of both online and traditional avenues, creating a more inclusive and resilient economy for all Kenyans to thrive.