Starting a Business In Kenya

Assessing your readiness, choosing a business structure, market research and writing a business plan.

Selecting a good name, checking if a name is taken, registering and protecting your business name.

Keep these things in mind when choosing a name for your business:

•  Submit a  choice of 3 preferred business names.
• Be sure it reflects the product or service you offer or you may confuse prospective customers.
• Think about how you want your business to be perceived.
• Pick something that is easy to pronounce and remember.
• Make it unique and distinctive to avoid confusion and legal issues.

Registering or incorporating your business, plus how to apply for a tax account.

The Company Registry requires that a name search and reservation be conducted and approved before the registration process of any local business. 

Business name reservations are done online through the e-citizen portal.

Currently, It takes a minimum of three (3) day for the business name search and reservation to be processed.

It should be noted that there is no requirement for a minimum or maximum number of names that an application can give.

Permits and licences that you may need for your business from all two levels of government.

Registered companies must then obtain registration with National Social Security Fund (NSSF), National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) .

A business permit should also be obtained from the County Government depending on the business type.

National and regional business support, including financing for immigrant and aboriginal entrepreneurs.

Meet with a finance advisory company to learn about common errors, bookkeeping best practices, and deductions.