The National Assembly of Kenya has passed the Finance Bill 2025, moving it forward for assent by President William Ruto.

• The Bill aims to finance the government's budget for the upcoming session.
• It was led by the Finance and Planning Committee, chaired by Molo MP Kuria Kimani.
• Importantly, the clause granting the Kenya Revenue Authority access to personal data was removed due to significant debate.

The National Assembly of Kenya has passed the Finance Bill 2025, rejecting proposals for unrestricted access to customer records by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and various tax adjustments.

• The bill aims to raise Sh24 billion and awaits assent from President William Ruto.
• Key amendments included maintaining data privacy rights under Article 31 of the Constitution.
• Legislators preserved zero-rated status for vital goods like mobile phones and solar batteries while sustaining Sh500 excise duty on Extra Neutral Alcohol.

EU Ambassador Henriette Geiger outlined the steps Kenya must take to remove itself from the money laundering grey list during an interview on June 19.

• Kenya is currently among 15 African countries monitored by the EU for money laundering and terrorism financing concerns.
• Henriette Geiger, EU Ambassador to Kenya, stressed that the grey listing does not impose economic sanctions like those on South Korea.
• Key recommendations include conducting a risk assessment on terrorism financing, improving prosecution of financial crimes, and enhancing supervision of virtual asset providers.