President William Ruto has proposed scrapping the 25 per cent import duty on mobile phones in a move aimed at lowering device prices and expanding access to Kenya’s digital economy.
Speaking during Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kipchoge Keino Stadium in Eldoret, Ruto said mobile phones had become essential tools for education, business, banking and employment rather than luxury items.
“Mobile phones are no longer a luxury. They are a classroom, a marketplace, a bank, an office and, for many young Kenyans, a gateway to employment,” the President said.
Ruto argued that reducing the cost of mobile phones would enable more Kenyans, particularly young people, to access digital services and income-generating opportunities.
The proposed tax change was among four measures announced in his national address, alongside PAYE relief for workers earning up to KSh32,333 monthly, stamp duty exemption on qualifying land transactions and an expanded apprenticeship programme.
The President said the measures were intended to remove barriers that prevent Kenyans from participating fully in economic activities.
However, the announcement was a proposal, with the relevant legislative and financial procedures still required before implementation.
