Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition leader Raila Odinga has spoken out against a proposed tax on digital content monetization, stating that it would stifle innovation and limit job opportunities for the country's youth.
The proposed tax, which would require creators of digital platforms and content to pay a 15 per cent tax, has been met with strong opposition from Kenya's creative community.
Speaking on the issue on Monday while addressing the media at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation, Raila highlighted the potential negative impact on the country's digital economy.
"After being attacked through turnover tax, the youth who have tried to find themselves jobs by using their creative talents in the digital space are being targeted through digital content monetization," Raila stated.
"From paying zero tax currently, a creative youth who creates a digital platform or content will now be required to pay 15 per cent tax."
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He argued that the proposed tax would stifle innovation and limit job opportunities for Kenya's youth, who have increasingly turned to the digital economy as a means of employment.
"As a country, you will be killing innovation and leaving our youth with too few options, if any," he said.
The former Prime Minister went on to pledge his opposition to the proposed tax, stating that he and his supporters would not support the proposal.
"We will not support this proposal," Odinga declared.
The proposed tax on digital content monetization has raised concerns with many creators and entrepreneurs speaking out against the proposal.
With Raila Odinga's vocal opposition to the tax, it remains to be seen whether the proposal will gain traction or be ultimately defeated.