The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has come under fire for issuing a new unsavory directive that seeks to tax personal or household items, whether new or used.
In a public notice on X (formerly Twitter) by the KRA handle, all travelers bringing items worth USD500 (approx. Ksh 75,000) or more will be taxed.
“Remember when traveling you will be allowed to carry personal or household items worth USD500 and below. Anything above the amount, shall be subjected to tax,” the tweet read.
The announcement sparked a public outcry, with many Kenyans saying that the move by the taxman would scare away tourists.
“Kenya declares no visa requirements for visitors, then charges tax for all items over USD 500 (KSh 75,000) when you come into the country. Long con,” @davidmbwana said.
@Ishiombz asked: “Are they saying that each time I pass through JKIA, I must pay taxes for my shoes on my feet, watch on my wrist, and suit on my back, which may be above USD 500?”
@SGiathi asked: “If I travel five times outside the country with my laptop, does that mean I’ll have to pay taxes for the same laptop five times, considering I still paid tax for it when I bought it?” Is Ruto scaring away tourists?
Some argued that President William Ruto’s government would scare away tourists with punitive taxes. They urged KRA to focus on widening the tax bracket rather than overburdening a few taxpayers.
@cjnyongesa noted: “Instead of increasing the tax bracket, they’re burdening a few. We are focused on chasing investors and tourists. “USD 500″ Ruto!”
The controversial tweet has now been deleted by the KRA X handle, who has not provided an explanation for the deletion.
