The KEPSA CEO Ms Carole Kariuki joined other stakeholders on 3^rd August 2023 at the Diamond Trust Bank (DTB) Economic and Sustainability Forum in Nairobi.  The quarterly forum brought together policymakers and thought leaders from both the public and private sectors to discuss emerging issues, with a view to catalyse collective participation in the country's development for mutual gains.

In her opening remarks, Ms Nasim Devji – DTB CEO said that the bank prides itself on being a catalyst for economic growth and sustainability in Kenya. She also noted that the power of collective knowledge and collaboration cannot be underestimated and that the event embodies the commitment to shaping the narrative in a way that fosters prosperity for all.

“The reason why I like this conversation is because it's one of the few conversations that we have which is not about ourselves. This conversation is about the next generation.” Said Mr Linus Gitahi - DTB Chair who also commended the country for leading in sustainability. He noted that Kenya renewable energy sources generate over 80% of electricity, advancing the agenda to transition to 100% clean energy by 2030.

The keynote speaker, Prof. Njuguna Ndung’u – Cabinet Secretary for National Treasury and Planning noted the importance of developing, protecting and regulating markets for sustainable financing. “We have to come up with instruments that allow us to optimize the tax estimates that we have, we have to go into analytical work to show that the tax estimates are also going to be an incentive.” He added.

Speaking in a panel discussion on the prospects, opportunities and challenges for businesses, Ms Carole Kariuki pointed out the need to streamline the tax regime in a way that would guarantee predictability while at the same time ironing out the issues of multiplicity of licences and permits which are hurting businesses and scaring away investors.

Ms Kariuki was joined in the panel by Hon. Billow Kerrow – Chair, Dangord Industries; Dr. Naomi Mathenge – Senior Economist, The Worlds Bank; Mr Kang’e Saiti – Partner, PwC; and moderated by Ms Faith Atiti – DTB.