Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has unveiled a new vision that will enable the growth of business industries, redefine taxation and ensure that the tax system will be transparent and citizen-centered.
The vision is to make KRA services easier, faster, and fairer by leveraging technology through platforms such as iTax and eTIMS, Artificial Intelligence and data analysis.
Addressing the citizens of Nairobi and representatives from various sectors such as the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), Kenya Transport Association, Bodaboda and Tuktuk associations, Kenya Seed Manufacturers, KCA Tax Group, the National Council for Persons with Disabilities, and Bunge la Wananchi on Wednesday, KRA Chairman, Ndiritu Muriithi emphasized that taxation underpins all state functions and infrastructure.
“The State cannot exist without taxes. Everything you see around you, from roads, hospitals, and schools to essential social programs, is made possible through the taxes Kenyans pay,” said the KRA Chairman in his opening remarks.
He also revealed that Kenya’s oldest recorded debt dates back to 1972, underscoring the country’s long-standing fiscal journey.
The KRA leadership used the forum to outline its commitment to transform the tax agency into a citizen-centric, technology-driven institution.
The new approach aims to simplify compliance, enhance transparency, and rebuild trust between the government and taxpayers.
KRA emphasized that in paying taxes, Kenyans are collectively contributing to building their nation and that KRA's vision is to make KRA services easier, faster, and fairer by leveraging the digital technology.
This will ease tax filing, improve accountability, and reduce corruption.
Officials said ongoing modernization and upgrades would make compliance more convenient and equitable for all taxpayers.
“We are committed to openness and accountability, which is why we are holding citizen assemblies such as this one,” said the taxman.
“We publish our initiatives, results, and continually improve processes with the input of our customers. Integrity and transparency are key pillars of this transformation.”
However, the session also highlighted the growing tension between citizens and the authority over tax value and enforcement.
Several participants questioned the visible impact of taxes, expressing concern that stricter enforcement without corresponding improvements in service delivery could fuel resistance to taxation.
“Many Kenyans argue they don’t see the value of their taxes,” one participant said. “If enforcement becomes tougher while services remain poor, compliance could decline.”
In response, KRA officials reiterated that their reforms aim to demonstrate value for every shilling collected by linking revenue directly to tangible development outcomes.
They stressed that by viewing taxes as “capital,” Kenyans can better appreciate how their contributions fund essential infrastructure and social programs that improve lives.
The event also touched on integrity within KRA, with officials acknowledging that corruption remains a challenge but reaffirming their internal reforms to strengthen ethical standards among staff.