This archive report was first published on 1 July 2019.
Published on July 1, 2019, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has announced a notable improvement in tax compliance among Kenyans, with over 3.6 million taxpayers filing their 2018 tax returns by June 30.
According to Deputy Commissioner Marketing and Communication Kenya Revenue Authority Grace Wandera, the number of citizens filing their returns increased by more than 400,000 compared to the 3.2 million recorded by June 30 last year.
"The growth in the numbers shows positive progress in tax compliance, a move that will eventually drive the country towards economic self-reliance," she said.
One of the key factors contributing to the efficiency witnessed this year is the improved functionality of the iTax online platform, which has reduced the long queues that were a common occurrence in previous years.
Additionally, the increased awareness campaign undertaken by the authority encouraging early filing of returns has also played a significant role in the improved tax compliance.
On-site assistance extended to both individuals and organizations countrywide has also been cited as a contributing factor to the efficiency witnessed this year.
Individuals who fail to file their annual returns for income tax will be charged a penalty fee of Sh2000 or 5 per cent of tax due, whichever is higher, while a non-individual income tax payer attracts Sh20,000 or 5 per cent of tax due.
