The Leaders of the Majority and Minority Parties in the National Assembly have emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between Parliament and the private sector to drive essential policy reforms.

Recognizing the critical role that effective legislation plays in fostering a conducive business environment, both leaders are advocating for a partnership that prioritizes economic growth, investment, and sustainable development.

Speaking during on Tuesday during Speaker’s Round Table with the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) in Naivasha, the leaders said collaborative approach will address pressing challenges and create a framework that supports innovation and entrepreneurship across various sectors of the economy.

Hon. Kimani Ichung’wah, Leader of the Majority Party, acknowledged KEPSA’s valuable contributions across various policy areas, including trade, finance, manufacturing, and agriculture.

He affirmed that these efforts have been instrumental in shaping policies that enhance the country's competitiveness within the region and beyond.

“As we engage today, I am confident that our joint efforts will yield actionable outcomes impacting all sectors of our economy, from large corporations to the vital small and medium enterprises that sustain millions of livelihoods,” said Hon. Ichung’wah.

He further noted the importance of addressing Kenya's economic realities, characterized by high youth unemployment and the urgent need for job creation.

“The Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) has a pivotal role in addressing these challenges through strategic partnerships and legislative advocacy, supporting government efforts to create employment opportunities for our youth.”

Hon. Ichung’wah appreciated the significance of the Speaker’s roundtable at a critical moment as Kenya navigates global economic challenges, technological transformations, and evolving labor demands.

“We must continue to adapt and innovate—aligning our legislation with the needs of a dynamic, inclusive economy and ensuring that all legislative proposals are anchored in sound economic policies. We share the responsibility of fostering a landscape where businesses can thrive, investments are protected, and Kenyans can enjoy the fruits of our growing economy.”

On his part, Leader of the minority party, Hon. Junet Mohamed, expressed concern over what he described as high tax rates, inadequate infrastructure, and the escalating cost of power, all of which have led to widespread business closures, downsizing, and significant job losses.

He asserted that sound monetary and fiscal policies are essential for creating a conducive environment for investment and business growth.

“As Members of Parliament, we must strive to craft fiscal and monetary policies that promote stability, encourage investment, and support entrepreneurship. It is also crucial to implement prudent management strategies to prevent unsustainable debt levels and ensure efficiency in public spending,” he stated.

Junet, who also represents Suna East, emphasized the importance of exercising the oversight role of Parliament to keep the government accountable in terms of debt management and public investment efficiency.

On the issue of taxation, he noted that sustainable fiscal policies can only be achieved through expanding the tax base, implementing sustainable tax incentives, and reducing tax evasion.

He cautioned that tax evasion will persist unless issues such as inflation, high tax rates, and a lack of accountability in the use of tax-generated resources are effectively addressed.

“Through our legislative role, we should work towards formulating or strengthening laws that foster investment through sustainable tax incentives,” he affirmed.

While acknowledging the critical role of the legislature in shaping Kenya’s economic landscape through legislation, Junet pointed out that by enacting laws aimed at combating corruption, controlling public debt, and promoting competitiveness and macroeconomic sustainability, Parliament can significantly contribute to driving economic growth while creating jobs and wealth.