The Kenyan National Assembly has opened a call for public submissions on two significant legislative proposals: the National Infrastructure Fund Bill and the Miscellaneous Fees and Levies (Amendment) Bill. This initiative aims to invite citizen participation in the legislative process, as stipulated by Article 118 of the Constitution. The government is actively engaging the public's views in order to refine these important funding mechanisms for infrastructure development.

The Miscellaneous Fees and Levies (Amendment) Bill seeks to amend existing legislation regarding the Railway Development Levy (RDL), a charge on imports that has been in place since 2016. Rather than introducing a new tax, the amendment clarifies how the RDL funds will be utilized, specifically earmarking them for railway infrastructure development, safety, and rehabilitation projects. This strategic financial move is designed to enhance the country's transport network and improve safety measures within the railway sector.

The establishment of a Railway Development Levy Fund Board is also proposed within the amendment. This board would oversee the management and allocation of funds accrued from the levy, ensuring transparency and accountability in the deployment of resources for railway projects. The discussions surrounding these bills are a crucial step in addressing the financing of major infrastructure initiatives in Kenya, with the aim of boosting economic growth and improving public transport services throughout the nation.