President Ruto Hails KRA’s AI-Led Reforms, Honours Taxpayers for Upholding Compliance

President William Ruto has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) with the policies and resources needed to modernize operations, simplify processes, and strengthen public trust.

Speaking during this year’s Taxpayers’ Day celebrations at State House, Nairobi, he noted that KRA has made progress in adopting new technologies, including AI-powered risk engines used to improve tax compliance. He highlighted that Kenya is among the early adopters of this technology in Sub-Saharan Africa.

He added that the Customs Department recently recorded its highest-ever monthly customs revenue—KSh 85 billion—after piloting these tools and reworking its processes. Domestic VAT collections have also improved, rising from an average of KSh 20 billion per month in the 2021/22 financial year to about KSh 28 billion currently.

The President said KRA has played a key role in strengthening the country’s economic position, pointing out that revenue collection has grown from KSh 122 billion in 1995 to KSh 2.57 trillion in the 2024/2025 financial year. He expressed confidence that the country is on track to reach the KSh 3 trillion target this year.

He urged all taxpayers to meet their obligations, noting that compliance is essential for national development. He also emphasized the need for public institutions to operate transparently so that taxpayers see value for the revenue they contribute.

The Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury, John Mbadi, said revenue collection remains central to financing the country’s development plans. He noted that the government will continue using technology to modernize the tax system, reduce leakages, and improve efficiency. According to him, broadening the tax base is necessary to ensure fairness in the system.

KRA Board Chair Ndiritu Muriithi said the Authority’s transformation agenda focuses on transparency, innovation, and better governance. He explained that KRA is implementing its 9th Corporate Plan, which includes transitioning from an Authority to a Service—a shift aimed at improving accountability and customer experience.

KRA Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga said the Authority is redesigning its services with a focus on convenience and accessibility. He noted that taxpayers can now file returns through the USSD code 2225#, without needing a smartphone, and can also access services via WhatsApp. He described these changes as steps toward making KRA services more readily available to the public.

During this year’s Taxpayers’ Day Awards, KRA recognized institutions and individuals for their commitment to tax compliance.

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