President William Ruto has said that Kenya’s progress should be judged not by how much revenue the government collects, but by how deeply the lives of ordinary citizens improve.
Speaking during celebrations to mark 30 years of the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and 20 years of Taxpayers’ Day, the President said every shilling collected must directly translate into real opportunities for Kenyans.
“Our success is measured not by revenue targets but by transformed lives,” Ruto said. “Every shilling must create opportunity a job for a young person, markets for a farmer, growth for a business, and better healthcare and education for every community.”
He emphasized that taxation should have a visible impact on the country, calling on government institutions to uphold fairness, transparency and integrity in public service.
Ruto urged Kenyans to embrace a shared sense of responsibility in nation building, saying the country can only grow stronger when every citizen understands the value of their contribution.
“As we mark three decades of KRA and two decades of Taxpayers’ Day, let us commit to a Kenya where fairness, integrity and responsibility define us,” he said. “Together, let us build a culture of integrity that strengthens our development and fuels our national confidence in a Kenya that works for all.”
The President noted that strengthening public trust is essential for expanding the tax base and ensuring sustainable development, adding that a more accountable government will encourage voluntary compliance.
