Step-by-Step Application Process
- Register Your Business — BRS registration via eCitizen. You need a Certificate of Incorporation or Business Name Registration.
- Obtain a KRA PIN — An active KRA PIN certificate is mandatory at the application.
- Create a Kisumu eServices Account — Sign up at eservices.kisumu.go.ke with your ID and email.
- Submit Trade Licence Application — Fill the online form with business name, location, category, and number of employees.
- Receive Tracking Number — The system generates a unique tracking number (e.g., TL-AAA0001) for SMS and email notifications.
- Pay via Pesaflow — When your application reaches the payment stage, the system notifies you. Pay via M-Pesa, bank, or card through Pesaflow.
- Download Interim Licence — Issued immediately after payment. This lets you operate legally while awaiting inspection.
- Premises Inspection — Within 30 days, county officers visit your premises to verify details.
- Final Permit Issued — After successful inspection, the full Single Business Permit replaces the interim licence and is available for download.
Physical Office Locations
- Kisumu Town Sub-County OfficeKisumu County Treasury — Oginga Odinga Street
- Huduma Centre KisumuArdhi House, Kisumu — Ground Floor
- Kisumu East Sub-CountyKondele, Kakamega Road — opposite Total Petrol Station
- Fire Safety Certificate DeskKisumu Fire Station, Obote Road
- Public Health OfficeKisumu County Public Health Department — Treasury Building
Expert Pro-Tip
Kisumu is the only county in Kenya where your SBP can be cancelled by the Lake Victoria Basin Commission (LVBC) — a body most entrepreneurs haven't heard of. Businesses operating within a defined distance of the lakeshore (including fish processors, boat operators, and waterfront hotels) need a separate LVBC clearance before the SBP is finalised. The interim licence doesn't flag this — you'll only find out during inspection.