NAIROBI, Kenya- The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) is stepping up efforts to combat tax evasion by urging all taxpayers to validate their mobile numbers and other personal details registered on the iTax platform.
The recently announced Taxpayer Register Data Clean-Up Exercise, published in local dailies, seeks to improve the accuracy of taxpayer information to ensure compliance with tax laws.
To streamline the verification process, KRA has implemented a One-Time Password (OTP) system that enables users to update their contact details on the iTax platform.
When users log in, the system displays their currently registered mobile number for review.
If the number is outdated or incorrect, users can simply enter the correct contact number to receive an OTP, which grants them access to update their records.
Those with correct contact information can request a verification code to confirm their mobile number.
KRA’s notice calls on taxpayers to verify additional details, such as their physical address, email address, residency status, and business information—including directorships or partnerships.
These updates, the Authority emphasizes, are critical to maintaining a clean and accurate taxpayer registry.
While KRA aims to expand its revenue base with this initiative, critics argue that it could lead to increased government surveillance.
With more personal data at KRA’s disposal, there are concerns about potential overreach, as the Authority will be able to monitor individual and corporate activity more closely.
Additionally, in a related effort to control the influx of substandard mobile devices, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) recently instructed phone manufacturers and importers to register each device’s IMEI number.
This requirement aims to improve the quality of devices entering the country and align with KRA’s broader data accuracy goals.
As KRA tackles tax evasion through digital verification, the Authority sees this exercise as a key strategy to widen Kenya’s tax base.
With digital transformations at the forefront, Kenya is adopting more comprehensive regulatory practices, from KRA’s iTax verification to CA’s IMEI registration mandate.
Whether this shift leads to greater compliance or sparks continued debate over privacy, one thing is clear: Kenya’s tax and regulatory bodies are betting big on technology to tighten control.
