The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has intensified efforts to improve tax compliance among businesses in Eastleigh by engaging directly with the local business community.
During a consultative meeting with the Eastleigh Business District Association (EBDA), KRA officials addressed key challenges affecting compliance and unveiled a comprehensive plan to support traders in meeting their tax obligations.
KRA identified Eastleigh as a vital commercial hub whose compliance gaps have broader implications for the national supply chain. Officials noted that low adoption of the Electronic Tax Invoice Management System (eTIMS) and the frequent failure to issue invoices have reduced transaction transparency, contributing to widespread non-compliance.
According to Commissioner for Micro and Small Taxpayers, George Obell, many businesses rely on cash transactions and often do not provide invoices, making it difficult for buyers to claim expenses and for authorities to track trade activity.
The discussions also highlighted barriers such as language differences, complex tax procedures, and limited access to KRA service centers. EBDA Secretary General Omar Hussein pointed out that many traders are not fluent in official languages, which hinders their understanding of tax requirements.
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To address this, KRA plans to deploy officers who can communicate in local dialects and provide tailored tax education. The authority will also work with mall operators to set up service desks within business premises, making it easier for traders to access assistance.
Deputy Commissioner for Tax Base Expansion, Esther Wahome, encouraged wider adoption of eTIMS, noting that it applies to all businesses, not just those registered for VAT, and helps improve transparency and voluntary compliance. She also highlighted a USSD service (*222#5#) designed to simplify tax registration, filing, and payments.
EBDA CEO Mohammed Adan welcomed the initiative, expressing the business community’s willingness to collaborate with KRA. He confirmed that EBDA will support the rollout of service desks in malls and help raise awareness about tax compliance.
As part of the initiative, KRA will launch an on-the-ground support program in Eastleigh this month, deploying officers across the area to assist traders with registration, filing, and tax payments, while also promoting better understanding of compliance requirements.
