Concerns Raised as Ichungwa Defends Govt’s Plan to Reintroduce Tax on Sanitary Towels & Diapers
Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah has defended the government’s plan to reclassify diapers and sanitary towels under the Eco Levy, shifting them from zero-rated to exempt status.
Speaking before the National Assembly on Wednesday, November 6, Ichung’wah explained that this move aims to protect the local manufacturing sector from substandard imports, which have increasingly flooded the Kenyan market.
“This bill addresses concerns raised by local manufacturers, who have argued that the influx of imported products undermines our manufacturing industry,” Ichung’wah noted.
He added that the change would introduce a Value Added Tax (VAT) on imported sanitary towels and diapers, thus encouraging consumers to purchase high-quality, locally produced goods.
Introduced by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, the Eco Levy seeks to impose VAT on these items to safeguard the local economy.
However, Ichung’wah clarified that the bill does not intend to tax all diapers and sanitary towels, as has been widely misunderstood by the public. He attributed this misinformation to certain leaders, who he accused of misrepresenting the bill for political gain.
“Some leaders are saying what is popular instead of what is right,” Ichung’wah remarked, referring to those who incited anti-Finance Bill protests earlier this year. He urged Kenyans to recognize that the Eco Levy targets only imported products, rather than locally produced sanitary items and diapers.
The tax reintroduction comes amid concerns about the government’s revenue losses due to previous tax exemptions.
Earlier this year, Treasury indicated that such exemptions had a significant impact on public finances, prompting the need for revisions.
In addition to the Eco Levy, two other bills have been presented in Parliament: the Tax Procedures (Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Public Finance Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024.
Treasury Secretary Mbadi argued that these bills are necessary to address revenue shortfalls and support economic sustainability.
Ichung’wah’s remarks reflect the government’s commitment to revitalizing the local manufacturing industry and reducing dependence on imported goods.
However, the proposed tax changes have sparked mixed reactions, with some citizens concerned about the potential cost increase on essential products like diapers and sanitary towels.
