President Uhuru Kenyatta has asked the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) to collaborate with other agencies within the multi-agency framework to fight illicit trade and ensure that no single cent of revenue is lost through tax evasion.
President Kenyatta emphasized that paying taxes enables Kenyans to take ownership of the country’s governance and actualization of shared development aspirations.
“I must emphasize that to achieve the better Kenya we desire; we must all be ready and willing to reciprocate by paying our tax dues and on time.
“Each eligible taxpayer must realise that paying their fair share of taxes is not only an obligation but it is a demonstration of patriotism,” the President said.
President Kenyatta spoke in Nairobi on Friday when he presided over the 2021 National Taxpayers’ Day, where he saluted all the taxpayers who discharged their civic duty by promptly paying their rightful tax dues.
During the event, Safaricom received an award for being the overall top large taxpayer while the medium top taxpayer award went to Premier Credit Limited.
While congratulating the individuals and corporates that received awards for exemplary tax compliance, the President urged other taxpayers to follow their example by promptly paying their rightful share of tax, filing returns diligently, and shunning evasive tactics which undermine the country’s ability to fund its development.
He also encouraged those who owe taxes from previous periods to demonstrate their patriotism by honouring their obligation.
“I urge you to take advantage of the ongoing Voluntary Tax Disclosure Programme and benefit from the full waiver of interest and penalties.
I am informed, so far, over 393 taxpayers have applied and through this initiative Kshs 2 billion have been collected,” President Kenyatta said.
