Dialogue team to meet key ministries over high cost of living next week

National Dialogue Committee co-chairs Kalonzo Musyoka (left) and Kimani Ichung'wah during a previous public submission of views at the Bomas of Kenya, October 3, 2023. [Samson Wire, Standard]

The National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) will hold a meeting with officials from the State Department of Housing, Treasury, and the Ministry of Energy on Monday, November 6, to discuss the rising cost of living.

The meeting will also involve experts from various fields who will offer their insights and recommendations on how to address the economic challenges facing Kenyans.

The move follows a presentation by the Controller of Budget Margaret Nyakang'o to NADCO on Tuesday, where she outlined key measures that can be taken to improve the economic situation in the country.

Among her suggestions were tax reforms, fiscal consolidation, social protection, and economic diversification.

Nyakang'o proposed reviewing the existing tax structure to make it more progressive and fair for low-income households, reducing taxes on essential commodities, and broadening the tax base by registering and taxing households in the informal sector.

She also emphasized enhancing transparency and accountability in government operations and promoting a culture of integrity and ethical conduct for all public and state officers.

NADCO will reconvene on Thursday, November 9, to review and refine the various proposals on the cost of living and consider legislative instruments that will inform the policy, legislative, and administrative framework.

The committee will later retreat from November 12 to begin the drafting of the final report, which is slated for presentation to President William Ruto and Azimio Chief Raila Odinga and subsequent tabling in both Houses of Parliament.