The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has announced plans to open a permanent fully-fledged office in Eastleigh in September, a move that is expected to bring services closer to the business community, improve taxpayer convenience and boost voluntary compliance.
Speaking during a strategic engagement between the KRA Board and the Eastleigh Business District Association (EBDA) on Thursday, Board Chairman Ndiritu Muriithi noted that their contribution to the economy is invaluable, adding that KRA is determined to support their continued growth through structured, responsive and respectful engagement.
“Tax is a necessity for any nation as it fuels and finances the state. At KRA, we are committed to making it easier and simpler for taxpayers to comply. Eastleigh’s contribution to the economy is invaluable, and we are determined to support your continued growth through structured, responsive, and respectful engagement,” he said.
Muriithi also urged the business community to collaborate with other government agencies for strategic support and growth of the business community.
The Eastleigh Business District Association, which has championed progressive business policy since 1990, welcomed the gesture and committed to deeper collaboration with KRA.
“KRA is a critical stakeholder for the Association. We are keen to work together through continuous dialogue, tax education forums and advocacy for practical tax incentives that support our business community,” EBDA CEO Mohamed Mero said.
The strategic engagement brought together senior KRA leadership and representatives from EBDA to discuss tax compliance, trade facilitation, and support for the growth of Eastleigh’s dynamic commercial ecosystem.
Mandera Deputy Governor Dr Ali Maalim Mohamud, who was present, emphasised the need for more targeted reforms and transformation within the tax policy ecosystem for a more favourable business environment.
“The engagement marks a pivotal step in KRA’s ongoing strategy on public engagement, expansion of the tax base, partnerships and mutual accountability. KRA and EBDA agreed to establish a structured engagement framework to facilitate regular consultation, feedback, and resolution of business-related tax matters. As part of its modernisation agenda, KRA continues to invest in technology and capacity building to improve service delivery and taxpayer experiences across all sectors,” Deputy Commissioner, Citizen Relations & Communication Grace Wandera said in a statement.
“KRA continues with its service expansion agenda to bring services closer to the people. In the last financial year 2024/2025, KRA operationalised offices in Maua, Wote, Chuka, Eldama Ravine, Iten, Kapenguria, Lodwar, Malaba, Homabay, Migori, Siaya, Kakuma, Kainuk and Tana River.”
The Eastleigh Business District comprises over 70 malls with 20,000+ shops, lodges and hotels, among other business, pharmacies, hospitals, schools, residential, cargo / transport companies, real estate and religious institutions.
It is estimated to contribute up to 15 per cent of Nairobi’s GDP and 30 per cent (an estimated Sh2 billion) in revenue to the county government annually, which is expected to rise in coming years as more developments come up.
