SK Macharia, Raila Leads Kenyan Artists in Celebrating 25% Excise Duty Exemption
Kenyan musicians, politicians, and industry stakeholders gathered on Tuesday at an event organized by the artists at SK Macharia’s residence to express gratitude to the government for waiving taxes on their Skiza tunes earnings.
Gathogo Wanjiru 
The artists who are now exempted from the 25% excise duty claim that the move will significantly increase their earnings.
Hundreds of local artists and politicians interacted at the event, which was held at the residence of Royal Media Services owner SK Macharia in Gatang’a.
ODM leader Raila Odinga was present, flanked on the side by a number of leaders, including Siaya Senator James Orengo and Murang’a Governor Mwangi wa Iria.
Others who graced the event are Finance Committee Chair Gladys Wanga, Maoka Maore (Igembe North), Kanini Kega (Kieni) Maina Kamanda (Nairobi), and former Gatanga MP Peter Kenneth.
According to the ODM party, the removal of the 20% excise duty, which Gladys Wanga lobbied for, will ensure Kenyan musicians benefit from their talents by ensuring higher returns from Skiza tunes and other platforms.
Ben Githae, a vernacular musician in attendance, praised the President, ODM’s Raila Odinga, and Royal Media’s SK Macharia for giving the musicians a new lease on life.
“We invited you here to celebrate the win we have received through the help we have received from his excellency the President, Prime Minister, and Dr. SK Macharia,” Musician Ben Githae said on Tuesday.
