Nairobi, Feb. 29 -- From routine enquiries, one appreciates that some leaders aren't yet sufficiently informed about the proposed annual levy on freehold land in the amendments pending enactment into law.

Let's close this gap. Holders of leasehold properties in rateable jurisdictions in Kenya currently pay annual rates. In addition, those who are lessees to the government, meaning that they have been leased the land for a term of years by either the county or national government, pay an annual rent.

This is the rent that they pay to the government every year as the owner of the land, or the lessor, under a mutual contract.

A freehold landowner within a rateable jurisdiction also pays annual rates. Such rates are desirable for the provi...