The Finance Bill 2026 has sparked debate in Kenya as it proposes significant tax increases to raise approximately Sh120 billion amid persistent cost of living pressures.

• The bill introduces changes including a 25% excise duty on mobile phones and reclassifying zero-rated VAT products as exempt, potentially raising consumer prices.
• Key organizations involved include the Treasury and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), which is targeting revenue collection of about Sh2.7 trillion for the 2025/26 financial year.
• Economists and tax experts, such as KPMG Associate Director Kiema Onesmus, warn that the measures lean heavily on revenue generation without offering short-term household relief and could hinder economic growth.