In the bustling metropolis of Nairobi, the absence of streetlights, the accumulation of waste, the deteriorating state of roads, and the city centre’s transformation into a chaotic hub of informal street vending have all contributed to a situation that is far from satisfactory for the city’s inhabitants.
Kenyans have expressed their dissatisfaction with the government’s implementation of lifestyle-related taxes, condemning them as not only punitive but also insensitive considering the country’s challenging economic conditions. One concerned citizen, Taabu Tele, believes that the Kenya Kwanza Alliance administration should adopt a more innovative approach to promoting economic growth, instead of fixating on past failings and making hollow promises of future prosperity.
Following the 2022 elections, the residents of Nairobi remember the commitments made by Governor Johson Sakaja to bring about transformative change in the city. However, there are increasing concerns about the lack of tangible progress since he assumed office. With the disappearance of streetlights, the growing waste crisis, and the dismal state of the roads, citizens are questioning the effectiveness of the current leadership.
In Kajiado County, there are concerns about the high costs of power connection. Local resident Mbiri Gikonyo expressed frustration after receiving a quotation of Sh380,000, with a significant portion attributed to taxes. He has suggested that privatizing the relevant parastatal could be a potential solution to improve the overall quality of services in the region.
Disaster preparedness has also been scrutinized, with suggestions for the Nakuru County government to consider acquiring a robust helicopter for use in fire emergencies, particularly in remote and challenging terrains. This proposal aims to address potential fire outbreaks, including those in poorly planned areas located on the steep escarpment of the Menengai Crater.
On a broader geopolitical level, there are concerns about the naming of the vast ocean shared by African countries. Thomas Yebei highlighted the irony of the ocean being named after India and called for the African Union (AU) to petition the United Nations for a more neutral and inclusive name, such as the “Indo-African Ocean”.
The issues surrounding lifestyle-related taxes, governance, public services, disaster preparedness, and geopolitical nomenclature underscore the growing concerns of Kenyan citizens. It is crucial for the government to address these pressing matters in a comprehensive and effective manner to alleviate the burdens faced by the people.
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