Residents of Kwale County have voiced their views on the proposed Privatization Bill,2025, during a public participation forum held at Kwale Cultural Centre in Matuga.

The session, led by Finance Committee Chairperson Kimani Kuria (Molo), provided a platform for locals to air their concerns and views on the proposed Bill.

A key concern raised was the fate of workers once privatization takes place, with residents insisting that strong labour laws and protections must be put in place to prevent layoffs and exploitation by private investors.

Others urged the committee to ensure transparency in the process, stressing that privatization should serve public interest rather than enriching few individuals.

Local residents also proposed that communities in which an enterprise being privatized is located be guaranteed a percentage of shares.

“We are the custodians of these assets. If they are to be sold, locals must also benefit either directly or through an elaborate Corporate Social Responsibility,” one participant noted.

MP Kuria reassured the residents that the committee will carefully consider all their submissions, saying the process aims to improve efficiency and create opportunities for Kenyans.

The Privatization Bill, 2025 (National Assembly Bill No. 36 of 2025), seeks to repeal the 2005 Privatization Act and align the framework with the Constitution of Kenya 2010.

The Bill proposes the creation of a Privatisation Authority to oversee the sale of public entities, from planning to the publication of notices.