Kenyan manufacturers have renewed calls for comprehensive reforms in the country’s tax and regulatory frameworks, highlighting how multiple fees and levies continue to disadvantage locally produced goods compared to cheaper imports.
The Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) shared these concerns on August 3, 2026, during the fifth Women in Manufacturing (WIM) Fireside Chat held at Essential Drugs Limited. The event focused on entrepreneurship, mentorship, and the challenges facing the manufacturing sector.
Multiple Levies Hampering Industrial Growth
Essential Drugs Limited’s Founder and Managing Director, Susan Warui, emphasized that the growing number of taxes and levies is a major obstacle to industrial expansion. She noted, “The cumulative cost of compliance continues to erode the competitiveness of locally manufactured products against cheaper imports.” Warui urged both national and county governments to foster a predictable and business-friendly environment that supports local manufacturers.
Drawing from her experience in developing Essential Drugs Limited into a reputable pharmaceutical firm, she encouraged women entrepreneurs to remain resilient, innovate, and build businesses grounded in quality and long-term vision.
Mentorship and Peer Learning Platform
The WIM Fireside Chat also provided a platform for women manufacturers to engage in mentorship and peer learning. Participants toured Essential Drugs Limited’s manufacturing facility to gain insights into production processes, quality standards, and growth strategies.
KAM Service and Consultancy Sector Chairperson, Carol Maina, described the forum as vital for sharing entrepreneurial experiences and practical lessons to help women business leaders overcome challenges and explore growth opportunities.
Demand for Policy Stability
This call for reform follows earlier appeals by manufacturers urging the government to stop frequent changes to tax policies. KAM has stressed that policy stability is essential for attracting investment, facilitating business planning, and enhancing the competitiveness of Kenyan exports.
The association maintains that reducing production costs, simplifying regulations, and ensuring fiscal policy consistency will bolster local industries, create jobs, and position Kenya as a competitive manufacturing hub in Africa.
