Counties Urged to Embrace Digitization Under New Licensing Law

Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang Nyong’o while chairing a meeting in Kisumu on January 22, 2025. PHOTO: Anyang’ Nyong’o|Facebook 

In a high-level meeting, Kisumu Governor Anyang Nyong’o together with officials from the Ministry of Investments, Trade, and Industry (MITI), the State Department of Devolution, and County Executive Committee Members (CECMs) from Migori, Homa Bay, Kisii, and Nyamira has today convened to chart the way forward in digitizing county systems.

The discussions were centered on implementing the County Licensing (Uniform Procedures) Act, 2024, a transformative piece of legislation aimed at standardizing licensing procedures across all counties to help create an effective business environment.

The Act published in the Kenya Gazette and assented to on June, 28,2024 which later commenced on 28 December 2024 is an act of Parliament to establish standard uniform procedures for licensing by county governments.

The Licensing Act in a connected purpose seeks to establish a seamless and harmonized trade environment, promoting efficiency and fostering economic growth.

“Digitization is key to enhancing efficiency by saving time, improving record accessibility, and streamlining processes to foster trade and economic growth,” Nyong’o affirmed.

In attendance were Kisumu County’s CECM for Agriculture, Kenneth Onyango, CECM for Trade, Farida Salim, as well as representatives from the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) and the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI).

The meeting highlighted the critical role digitization plays in creating a conducive environment for trade and investment, aligning with the government’s broader economic development agenda.

Governor Nyong’o has urged the county governments to take up the challenge and implement the set licensing procedures adopting technological know-how.

“Counties must adopt digital solutions to unlock their full economic potential,” he said.