Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has stepped up efforts to inculcate a culture of tax compliance among the youth and bring them into the tax net at an early stage, citing data showing Kenyans aged between 21 and 30 years account for 42% of registered taxpayers.
Speaking during a public lecture at the Kendu Adventist School of Medical Sciences (KASMS), KRA Commissioner in charge of the Micro and Small Taxpayers Department, CPA George Obell, said the authority is expanding continuous tax education through strategic partnerships with institutions, communities, and professional groups, including health workers and participants in the gig economy.
The Commissioner also noted that KRA is committed to supporting young health professionals and health entrepreneurs through specialised tax education programmes and a dedicated support channel tailored for health students and early-stage medical practitioners preparing to venture into private practice.
“Our goal is simple, to ensure that no young professional is left behind or disadvantaged due to a lack of information,” said Commissioner Obell.
“Real progress and transformation require each of us to play our part. No contribution is too small, and no effort is insignificant when the goal is the common good.”
He emphasised the critical role of tax compliance in sustaining public services, particularly in the healthcare sector.
“Every modern society that seeks to provide quality healthcare, education, reliable infrastructure, and meaningful employment requires a predictable and sustainable source of financing.”
“Every tax-compliant clinic, chemist, laboratory, consultancy, or medical start-up contributes to a Kenya where mothers receive proper maternity care, children are vaccinated, emergencies are managed swiftly, and every citizen can access quality health services,” he said.
He revealed that the health sector, which is among the major beneficiaries of government tax exemptions and incentives, contributed Kshs. 43 billion in taxes during the 2024/2025 financial year.
Commissioner Obell further said that KRA is training community-based tax ambassadors to extend its reach beyond KRA offices and bring tax education closer to the people.
“We are going to the ground. We want trained people within the taxpayer system who can explain obligations, benefits, and filing requirements in a language people understand,” he said.
He also disclosed that KRA plans to introduce tax education as early as high school through ongoing discussions with key education stakeholders, while maintaining focused engagements with colleges and training institutions to nurture a culture of voluntary compliance from an early age.
KRA urges all taxpayers to remain vigilant and ensure full compliance with tax laws.
For assistance, taxpayers can reach KRA through the call centre (+254 711 099 999/WhatsApp), social media platforms, USSD *222#, the KRA website (www.kra.go.ke), or by visiting the nearest KRA office.
