The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) is seeking public input on new draft regulations designed to enhance compliance in residential rental income tax.

• The proposed Income Tax (Residential Rental Income Tax) Regulations, 2026, aim to replace the existing 2016 framework.
• Key changes include mandatory digital property registration, monthly tax filings, and stricter enforcement measures by the KRA.
• Submissions from the public and stakeholders are due by May 25, 2026.

President William Ruto has announced a reduction in the deposit required for Kenya's affordable housing program, lowering it from 10 percent to 5 percent of the unit's value.

• A 5 percent deposit is now required for salaried workers seeking affordable housing units.
• The initiative involves the Kenyan Government and is promoted through the Boma Yangu platform.
• The President also highlighted progress in healthcare, labor rights, and ongoing development projects in Vihiga county with a KSh15 billion investment.

Central Organization of Trade Union (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has clarified that the recently announced 12 percent wage increase is a broad-based salary adjustment for all workers, not just a revision of the statutory minimum wage. This clarification follows President William Ruto's Labour Day announcement of the increase.

• The 12 percent wage increase applies to all workers across salary brackets, including professionals.
• Francis Atwoli, Secretary General of COTU, emphasized the distinction between a general wage increase and a minimum wage adjustment.
• Separately, a 15 percent increase has been implemented for minimum wage earners.