The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) plans to launch an online chatbot to provide tax information and services to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
This initiative, announced by Mr. George Obell, Acting Commissioner of the Micro and Small Taxpayers Department, aims to enhance customer service and improve tax knowledge among MSMEs.
The chatbot will address common queries related to tax compliance, complementing KRA’s ongoing nationwide taxpayer sensitisation programs.
Mr Obell emphasised KRA’s commitment to simplifying tax processes for MSMEs to boost their contribution to national revenue. He stated, “KRA is building a tax system that simplifies registration, filing, and payment for MSMEs, facilitating voluntary compliance while ensuring equity across taxpayers.”
James Mureu, Chairman of the Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA), praised KRA for establishing the Micro and Small Taxpayers Department, strengthening MSMEs’ recognition within Kenya’s tax framework.
He called for continued open dialogue and collaboration to develop policies that unlock MSMEs’ economic potential.
The MSME roundtable included discussions on improving tax compliance, concluding with a call for KRA to balance enforcement with active support for MSME growth. KRA continues to engage stakeholders through such forums to co-create solutions that promote ease of doing business and voluntary compliance.
Additionally, KRA plans to roll out a WhatsApp chatbot enabling MSMEs to generate electronic tax invoices via the popular messaging app. This tool aims to simplify tax invoicing through the electronic tax invoice management system (eTIMS), addressing challenges faced by small traders in adopting digital tax tools.
The WhatsApp chatbot is expected to launch before the end of the 2024/2025 financial year and is part of broader efforts to leverage technology, including AI and machine learning, to improve tax compliance and revenue collection.
KRA Introduces M-Service App to Make Life Easy for Taxpayers
