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{
    "id": 1590955,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1590955/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 170,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Hon. John Mbadi",
    "speaker_title": "The Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury and Economic Planning",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": "activity and disrupted business operations across the country, compounding the fiscal pressures facing the Government already. In response, the Government undertook a revision of the fiscal framework through Supplementary Estimates I in August 2024. This revision reflected a lower revenue base following the preliminary outcomes of the Financial Year 2023/2024, while also addressing immediate cash flow constraints. These adjustments were critical to ensuring the continuity of public service delivery. In addition to the mid-year economic disruptions, the Budget execution has been further constrained by shortfalls in revenue and emerging expenditure pressures. Notably, the implementation of the Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) and funding requirements under the new university education financing model has placed significant demands on the available fiscal space. These challenges have led to cash flow pressures and a build-up of pending obligations, necessitating careful fiscal management and reprioritisation. To address these evolving dynamics, the Government prepared Supplementary Budget Estimates to accommodate revenue shortfalls experienced during the fiscal year and accommodated expenditure pressures. On domestic revenue mobilisation, in order to support our economic agenda and sustain key Government programmes, the Government continues to implement a balanced mix of tax policy and administrative measures aimed at significantly boosting revenue collection. As part of the process, the Government is focused on broadening the tax base while reducing the burden of compliance. In this regard, we have prioritised sectors such as the digital economy, agribusiness, and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in tax education and outreach programmes. In addition, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) continues to embrace modern technology to streamline tax processes, facilitate trade and enhance voluntary compliance. A key milestone in this journey is the launch of GAVA Connect, an open application programming interface platform that enables Kenyan developers to build homegrown solutions for efficient access to tax services. This programme enhances service delivery, improves transparency, and strengthens our ability to detect tax evasion. Kenya Revenue Authority has also introduced several digital tools to simplify compliance and boost operational efficiency. These include: 1. The auto-populated Value Added Tax (VAT) returns for seamless, accurate tax filing. 2. Simplified Pay as You Earn (PAYE) returns accessible via mobile, web, and application programme interface. 3. Electronic Rental Income Tax System that has enabled transparent rental income declarations. 4. Forecourt electronic Tax Invoice Management System integration in the petroleum sector, connecting fuel dispensers to point-of-sale terminals. This enables real-time transmission of sales data to Electronic Tax Invoice Management System simplifying compliance and ensuring greater transparency in fuel transactions. Hon. Speaker, these solutions are more than just tech updates. They are the drivers of economic empowerment and accountability. Indeed, by simplifying tax procedures, developing user-friendly digital platforms, and providing on-the-ground support, Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) is nurturing a fair and inclusive tax culture, one that enables businesses to thrive while meeting their obligations. Hon. Speaker, building on the progress made, our focus in the Financial Year 2025/2026 and over the medium term, will be to strengthen domestic resource mobilisation through the following key initiatives: The electronic version of the Official Hansard Report is for information purposesonly. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor."
}