Uhuru launches a web based system to curb tax evasion

NAIROBI, KENYA, Nov 6 – The Kenya Revenue Authority, KRA has launched a web-based anonymous reporting solution dubbed iWhistle at a virtual function graced by President Uhuru Kenyatta.

The KRA iWhistle solution will enable the public to anonymously report and provide tax crime leads.This was the highlight at the annual KRA Taxpayers’ Day Celebrations and can be accessed on the KRA portal.

“Any Kenyan providing credible information tips received on the iWhistle and leading to collection of revenue on tax fraud or tax evasion schemes will receive cash rewards of up to Sh2 million per case as stipulated by law,under the KRA Act. Said James Mburu. KRA, Commissioner General.

Tax evasion and other economic crimes are said to impede effective mobilisation of domestic financial resources required for national development.

The iWhistle solution has been developed as part of KRA’s efforts to curb revenue leakages through various tax evasion schemes.

The schemes include failure by taxpayers to pay Custom Duty, tax fraud, failure by a taxpayer to submit tax returns by the due date, concealment, mis-declaration, smuggling of goods, manufacturing of counterfeit goods amongst others.

KRA has over the years undertaken various measures to enforce and inculcate a tax-paying culture amongst taxpayers. These include initiatives such as the implementation of the Alternative Dispute Resolution,ADR, mechanisms such as tax tribunal, enhanced litigation, agreed payment plans, engagements with taxpayers through various educational programmes.

Other initiatives include the automation of business processes such as iTax, Integrated Customs Management System, Excise Goods Management System (EGMS) and Regional Electronic Goods Tracking System which are aimed at minimizing human contact which can lead to comprising circumstances between taxpayers and KRA employees.

“The introduction of iwhistle underscores KRA’s commitment to ensuring that Kenya achieves its social, economic and development goal being the government’s revenue collection agency.” Said James Mburu.

During the KRA Taxpayers’ Day celebrations, which was held virtually,The president awarded distinguished taxpayers for their resilience, dedication and compliance. The taxpayers, who include corporates and individuals were feted for tax compliance.

The Taxpayers Day marks the end of the Taxpayers Month, which kicked off on 5th October and was marked with various activities including the 6th Annual Tax Summit. This year’s Taxpayers Month is themed; “Enhancing Tax Administration for Economic Sustainability,” and takes place on a special year when KRA commemorates its 25th anniversary.