KRA launches ‘GAVA Connect’ API to modernize tax administration and spur innovation

DIANA NGUNJIRI (MYGOV) 

Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has launched a new application programming interface (API) platform dubbed ‘GAVA Connect’ in a bid to simplify Kenya’s tax system. 

The launch, which coincided with the unveiling of KRA’s 9th Corporate Plan and the celebration of 2024 Taxpayers Day, aims to empower Kenyan tech developers and entrepreneurs to create solutions that will enhance public access to tax services. 

The event, held at State House Nairobi, was graced by President Dr. William Ruto who praised KRA for its continued efforts to integrate modern technologies into tax administration. 

The President emphasized that the adoption of digital tools is central to improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing transparency within the tax system. 

In his speech, President Ruto highlighted the crucial role of technology in transforming governance. He noted that automated systems like electronic data interchange, streamlined customs processes, and now the ‘GAVA Connect’ API, will significantly improve the country’s tax collection capacity.

“Technology is vital for our nation’s transformation. By adopting systems like the ‘GAVA Connect’ API, KRA will enhance service delivery and ensure that tax evasion is detected more effectively.

The goal is to make it easier for every Kenyan to comply with their tax obligations,” the President said. 

The new ‘GAVA Connect’ platform is designed to al low software applications to communicate seamlessly with KRA’s internal systems. 

This API will give Kenyan developers access to KRA’s huge tax data, enabling them to create applications that can streamline tax processes and improve taxpayer compliance. 

President Ruto acknowl edged the Authority’s ef forts in expanding the country’s tax base. In the 2023/2024 financial year, KRA generated Sh24.6 billion and added 1.2 million new taxpayers to the revenue pool through its tax base expansion strategies. 

Key initiatives such as the Blockchain Management System for landlords and the Monthly Rental Income Program have been instrumental in bringing previously untapped sectors into the tax net. 

The Head of state lauded KRA’s efforts to combat fraud which includes the introduction of the Electronic Tax Invoice Management System (eTIMS) which has already helped reduce VAT fraud, generating over Sh314 billion from more than 280,000 VAT-registered taxpayers.