Business
Kenya Deploys WhatsApp for Tax Filing
Phathisani Moyo
Kenya has launched a WhatsApp-based tax filing platform to simplifying compliance and onboard millions of new taxpayers into the system.
The initiative, introduced by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), allows users to file their tax returns through a chatbot on WhatsApp, cutting the process from eight steps to just three.
KRA Commissioner-General, Humphrey Wattanga, described the platform as a “game-changer” designed to meet taxpayers on familiar digital platforms while improving ease of use.
KRA commissioner general Humphrey Wattanga (centre) has described the new WhatsApp-based tax filing platform as a game-changer in simplifying compliance and expanding Kenya’s tax base
According to him, the system is expected to drive compliance, particularly among young people and those operating in the informal sector.
The chatbot functions like a guided conversation. Users initiate a chat with a verified KRA number, select the type of return they want to file, and verify their identity using their KRA PIN. Once authenticated, the system automatically retrieves pre-filled tax data, including income and statutory deductions.
Taxpayers are then prompted to review, confirm or edit the information before submission, reducing the need for repetitive data entry. The platform also provides real-time responses to user inquiries, eliminating the need for physical visits or call centre support.
Officials say the innovation addresses one of the key barriers to tax compliance — complexity. With the new system, users no longer need advanced knowledge to complete their filings.
Kenya’s tax system currently faces a significant compliance gap. While over 22 million taxpayers are registered, only about 7 million actively file returns.
The government is betting that integrating tax services into widely used digital platforms will encourage more participation and improve revenue generation.
The move reflects a broader trend across Africa, where countries are increasingly adopting digital tools to modernise tax administration.
In Nigeria, the Federal Inland Revenue Service has also rolled out digital platforms to enhance tax collection, while South Africa and Rwanda continue to expand their e-filing and mobile-based systems.
With the new WhatsApp platform, Kenya positions itself among African countries leveraging technology to deepen tax compliance and streamline public service delivery.
The Lagos State Police Command has recorded significant breakthroughs through coordinated and simultaneous operations targeting cultism and illegal arms proliferation across Ikorodu, Lagos Island, Okoko, Ilasan, Ogba, and Iju areas of the State.
The operations resulted in the arrest of twenty-three suspected cultists, recovery of five (5) firearms and other incriminating exhibits.
During the operation in Ikorodu, four suspects were arrested following credible intelligence linking them to cult-related activities. Preliminary findings indicate links to the Buccaneers Confraternity (Sea Lords).
In Lagos Island, nine suspected cultists were arrested during a raid on a criminal hideout. In Ilasan, five suspects in connection with a cult-related killing of one Emmanuel Obioson were arrested. In Okoko, one suspect with ties to the Eiye Confraternity was intercepted in possession of a firearm.
Similarly, in Ogba and Iju areas, the operations led to the arrest of four (4) suspects involved in illegal cult gatherings, assault, and other related violent crimes. Weapons used in the attacks were recovered, and victims are currently receiving medical attention.
The suspects are: Shina Wale ‘m’ 36yrs, Kehinde Kareem ‘m’ 18yrs, Mohammed Aileru ‘m’ 18yrs, Bada Mujeeb ‘m’ 18yrs, Salam Kosoko ‘m’ 30yrs, Yusuf Anjorin ‘m’ 19yrs, Quadri Abubakar ‘m’ 21yrs, Lateef Salako ‘m’ 18yrs, Fawaz Bello ‘m’ 30yrs, Oyesola Olalekan ‘m’ age 36yrs, Ubaka Justice ‘m’ age 36yrs, Emmanuel Obekpa ‘m’ age 36yrs, Sodiq Ademola ‘m’ age 36yrs, Balogun Taofeek ‘m’ 33yrs, Azeez Owolabi ‘m’ age 28yrs, Meshack Obini ‘m’ age 24yrs, Fabulous John ‘m’ age 25yrs, Promise Israel ‘m’ age 28yrs, Bright Aniedi ‘m’ age 27yrs, Familola Fikayo David ‘m’ age 24yrs, Akeem Olamilekan ‘m’ aka Magali age 43yrs, Muiz Oyedele ‘m’ age 20yrs, Hamzat Sadiq ‘n’ age 19yrs
The exhibits include: Five (5) locally made pistols, one (1) toy pistol, fifteen (15) live cartridges, three (3) expended cartridges, one (1) Police camouflage face cap, one (1) Army camouflage face cap, one (1) jack knife with the pouch.
The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, reiterates the Command’s unwavering commitment to eradicating cultism and violent crimes.
He urges members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to support the Police with timely and credible information through the Command emergency lines: 07061019374, 08065154338, 08063299264, 08039344870, and 09168630929.
The post Lagos Police Arrest 23 Suspected Cultists, Recover Firearms in Statewide Raids appeared first on Business Today NG.
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