The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has waived penalties, interest, and fines amounting to Kshs. 158 billion under its ongoing Tax Amnesty Programme, offering relief to more than 2.9 million taxpayers across the country.Launched on December 27, 2024, the initiative is part of KRA’s efforts to promote voluntary compliance and support taxpayers burdened by historical tax debts.
According to a KRA statement released this week, the amnesty applies to tax liabilities accrued up to December 31, 2023.So far, the programme has not only written off billions in penalties and interest but also enabled KRA to collect Kshs. 10.9 billion in principal tax payments. This underscores the authority’s commitment to facilitating compliance while enhancing revenue collection.
Under the programme, taxpayers who do not owe principal taxes for the stated period but have outstanding penalties or interest qualify for an automatic waiver—no application necessary. On the other hand, those with outstanding principal taxes must apply through the iTax system and present a structured payment plan to fully settle their dues by the deadline of June 30, 2025.
Tax debts arising from January 1, 2024, onwards are not covered by the amnesty and must be paid in full, including any interest and penalties incurred.Taxpayers with ongoing disputes are encouraged to resolve them through KRA’s Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) framework before the amnesty window closes.
The authority emphasizes that acting promptly could help businesses and individuals clean up their tax records and avoid future penalties.“The Tax Amnesty Programme offers a unique opportunity for taxpayers to start afresh, free of past tax burdens,” KRA stated. “We urge all eligible individuals and businesses to take advantage of the relief before the June 30 deadline.”This amnesty programme is among several recent measures by KRA to foster a tax-compliant culture and enhance taxpayer support services in the country.
