NAIROBI, Kenya, January 24 — The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) is rolling out new digital tax tools aimed at making compliance simpler, faster and more affordable for taxpayers across the country.
The reforms form part of KRA’s broader digital transformation strategy, which focuses on reducing physical visits to tax offices while improving efficiency and transparency.
WhatsApp Chatbot Goes Live
Speaking on Thursday, KRA Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga said the authority has introduced a 24-hour WhatsApp chatbot that provides at least 15 tax-related services.
Through the chatbot, taxpayers can:
- Ask tax-related questions
- File returns
- Access compliance support
- Receive real-time guidance
As a result, users no longer need to visit KRA offices for routine services.
According to Wattanga, the chatbot is part of a wider investment in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and data analytics, which will strengthen tax administration and improve service delivery.
AI and IT Upgrades Cut Costs
Meanwhile, KRA Chairperson Ndindi Muriithi said continuous upgrades to the authority’s IT systems and software have modernised operations and significantly reduced paperwork.
Consequently, the changes have lowered compliance costs for taxpayers while improving overall efficiency.
“These reforms have simplified tax compliance and made it easier for Kenyans to meet their obligations,” Muriithi said.
Revenue Performance Beats Target
The digital reforms come as KRA reports strong revenue growth in the second half of the 2025/26 financial year, which ended in December 2025.
During the period:
- KRA collected Sh307.6 billion against a target of Sh285 billion
- This represented a 108 per cent performance rate
- Revenue grew by 29.3 per cent year-on-year
In addition, Customs and Border Control recorded Sh85.9 billion, surpassing its target and marking the highest monthly collection in KRA’s history.
Why It Matters
Tax experts say digital tools such as chatbots and AI analytics are critical in:
- Expanding the tax base
- Improving voluntary compliance
- Reducing corruption and errors
- Enhancing taxpayer experience
Notably, Kenya joins other countries using digital platforms to modernise revenue collection, as highlighted by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
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- How KRA’s digital reforms are changing tax compliance
- KRA revenue hits record highs amid economic recovery
- Government ramps up digitisation of public services
