The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting micro and small enterprises through enhanced taxpayer engagement and simplified compliance measures.
Speaking during a taxpayer engagement forum in Kisii County on Monday, Commissioner for Micro and Small Taxpayers George Obell emphasized that the authorityโs role goes beyond revenue collection.
โKRA is not just here to collect; we are here to connect, support and ensure seamless compliance while creating a conducive environment for doing business,โ Obell told members of the local business community.
The forum brought together traders, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders to discuss tax compliance challenges and explore ways of strengthening collaboration between the authority and taxpayers.
Obell assured attendees that KRA has put in place robust measures to address issues previously raised by taxpayers and to enhance compliance levels, particularly among micro and small enterprises (MSEs), which form the backbone of Kenyaโs economy.
He noted that public engagement and taxpayer education remain central to KRAโs strategy of improving understanding of tax obligations and building a culture of voluntary compliance.
โWe continue to prioritize public engagement and taxpayer education as key strategies to help businesses understand their obligations and comply with ease,โ he said.
As part of ongoing reforms, the Commissioner highlighted the introduction of simplified tax solutions aimed at making compliance more convenient and less burdensome for small businesses. These measures are designed to reduce administrative hurdles while encouraging timely and accurate filing of returns.
One of the key changes announced is greater flexibility in the payment of Turnover Tax (TOT). Under the new arrangement, eligible taxpayers will be allowed to remit Turnover Tax on a daily basis.
The move is expected to ease cash flow pressures for small traders who often operate on tight margins and daily revenues. By aligning tax payments more closely with business cash inflows, KRA hopes to encourage consistent and timely compliance.
Obell reiterated that the authority remains committed to expanding the tax base fairly and equitably. He stressed the importance of bringing more businesses into the tax net while ensuring that the system remains just and supportive of economic growth.
โKRA is dedicated to fostering a collaborative relationship with taxpayers. Our goal is to create an environment where businesses can thrive while meeting their tax obligations,โ he said.
The engagement in Kisii is part of a broader nationwide outreach programme by KRA aimed at strengthening trust, enhancing transparency and supporting regional economic development.
By deepening dialogue with taxpayers and introducing practical compliance solutions, the authority seeks to strike a balance between revenue mobilization and creating a business-friendly environment โ a move that could bolster growth among small enterprises in Kisii and across the country.
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