Kenyans are protesting a directive issued by the country’s revenue authorities that aims to impose taxes on personal or household items valued at $500 (£400) or more brought in by tourists and returning citizens.
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has stipulated that all goods, whether they are new or used, exceeding this value are subject to taxation.
This directive has elicited strong public opposition, with many Kenyans expressing concerns that it may deter tourists from visiting the country.
Some Members of Parliament (MPs) have alleged that certain KRA officials have been misusing this directive to harass tourists, which in turn tarnishes the country’s image.
Tourism Minister Alfred Mutua has criticized the KRA’s decision, citing it as a contributing factor to the decline in the number of tourists visiting Kenya.
Minister Mutua highlighted that in other countries like Rwanda, South Africa, and Dubai, visitors are not subjected to such challenges, despite these nations also collecting taxes.
He expressed concern about Kenya’s declining attractiveness to tourists and questioned why they face such issues in the country.
This tax directive is the latest in a series of new taxes introduced by President William Ruto’s government, which have been attributed to the increasing cost of living in Kenya.
This is despite President Ruto’s electoral pledge last year to alleviate financial hardships for families.
Source-BBC
