This archive report was first published on 1 November 2019.
As the country grapples with budget cuts, the Treasury is exploring innovative ways to raise revenue, with social media emerging as a potential goldmine.
According to sources, the decision to tax social media was arrived at after realizing that millions of Kenyans use these platforms, making them a lucrative source of revenue.
With an estimated 11.6 million people going online at least seven times within an hour, the potential tax returns are substantial, with the minimum tax return from such individuals amounting to 5 million shillings in an hour.
The Treasury is reportedly targeting major social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and WhatsApp, with Instagram and Twitter expected to fetch high returns due to their high usage and engagement.
WhatsApp, on the other hand, has the largest number of returning users, with the majority of youths and adults relying on the platform for communication.
Acting Treasury CS Ukur Yattani has warned that no one will be spared in the process, with those who try to sabotage the government's decision or incite the public facing contempt and violation charges.
Yattani has called on Kenyans to be prepared for the operation, assuring them that the returns will be used for developmental initiatives aimed at improving living conditions and standards.
Published on November 1, 2019.
