KRA Commissioner-General John Njiraini's term is set to conclude in June 2019, initiating a leadership transition at the agency as it faces revenue collection challenges and expansion targets. The Kenya Revenue Authority board confirmed his departure after a seven-year tenure, during which he oversaw technological upgrades and legal reforms but struggled to meet Treasury revenue goals.
Njiraini, appointed in 2012 by then-Finance Minister Uhuru Kenyatta, had his initial term expire in March 2018 before receiving an unspecified extension. KRA board chairman Francis Muthaura stated his contract would end in June, allowing time to identify a successor. The agency is under pressure to collect Sh2 trillion to fund the government's Sh2.9 trillion budget for the 2019-20 fiscal year.
The new leadership team, led by Muthaura, aims to expand the taxpayer base to seven million by 2021 through digital platforms like iTax and real-time customs monitoring. Recent appointments include Kevin Safari as customs commissioner and Ruth Wachira as acting domestic tax commissioner. KRA's corporate plan projects revenue growth to Sh1.997 trillion in 2019-20 and Sh2.298 trillion in 2020-21, though collection shortfalls of Sh185 billion over three years highlight ongoing challenges.
Njiraini acknowledged that 2019 revenue targets remained at risk due to prolonged elections affecting business activity. He noted lingering economic concerns, including sluggish demand and profitability issues. The agency's strategy includes adding 3.06 million taxpayers by 2021, targeting 65% compliance from 59% in 2018 through enhanced technology and enforcement measures.
