This archive report was first published on 12 November 2021.
On November 12, 2021, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) announced plans to scrutinize social media profiles to identify tax evaders. However, in a recent interview, KRA's digital economy manager Nixon Omondi clarified that the authority will only target individuals who are not tax compliant.
Speaking on Spice FM, Omondi stated that people who fake lifestyles on social media have no reason to worry, as long as they have filed their tax returns. He emphasized that the KRA will not assume that a person's social media posts reflect their actual income or tax obligations.
However, Omondi warned that individuals who post pictures of high-end properties, exotic holidays, or luxurious vehicles may be subject to closer scrutiny. The KRA will seek to verify the ownership of such properties and ensure that the individuals are paying the necessary taxes.
According to Omondi, the KRA will not conduct lifestyle audits, but rather focus on tax compliance. He encouraged individuals who are flying around the world regularly to cooperate with the KRA and provide proof of their income and tax payments.
