Recording and performing artiste Nviiri the Storyteller in a series of social media posts has come out to fault the government for proposing to tax creatives/digital content creators.
The Sol Generation signee feels that the move will just frustrate young people trying to make a living and rise above poverty without involving themselves in shady deals.
He also called out the government for doing nothing to help the digital space but now that it has grown they want to take from youths who have hustled to make it happen.
"As entertainers, we keep coming up with innovative ways of getting money and the system isn't playing any impactful role in helping. Now they want to tax these new concepts on digital platforms!
How about they start by making it easier for us to earn as young creatives by ensuring our rights are protected on the different platforms in place!?" Part of Nviiri's angry rant read.
The "Kesi Baadaye" hitmaker went on to point out how odd it was for the government to be making such decisions without even engaging with content creators.
"How about they engage young creatives on finding solutions before making these decisions!? Where is Ezekiel Mutua in all this!? I'm willing to be engaged for solutions." Nviiri wrote.
He added that he had no issue with the government implementing taxes his issue was how it was being done, and the relevance behind the taxation.
"Note: I have nothing against taxes, but let it be done Properly. To the officials fighting the good fight, Big up! And thank you for involving us in the conversation the good fight continues." The last of his post read.
The government of Kenya has proposed an amendment to the finance bill to allow the expansion of the tax base.
One of the proposals made in the bill is the taxation of content creators. Payments made by taxpayers to digital content creators will be subject to a 15% withholding tax rate, according to the new proposed legislation.
It now means offering payment for entertainment, social, literal, artistic, educational, or any other material electronically through any medium or channel. This includes various forms such as advertisement, brand endorsements, partnerships, and sponsorships.
The bill also mentions creators who use membership programs for exclusive content, and crowdfunding for raising funds for specific goals should pay taxes.
The tax proposal mentions merchandise sales where physical goods and services are sold featuring a logo, brand, or catchphrase to the audience of the content creator.
If approved, the new taxes will be effective from 1st September.
Read also:
