Small-scale traders in Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD) have taken to the streets to protest what they call a sharp rise in taxes and new customs valuation rules by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). The demonstrations began on August 28, 2026, with traders gathering in the Archives area before marching toward KRA’s headquarters at Times Tower. The protest follows KRA’s decision to increase the minimum customs valuation benchmark for a 40-foot container of consolidated general cargo from Sh2.5 million to Sh3.2 million.
The unrest escalated as police deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd, leading to what officials described as “running battles” in the city center. Reports indicate that traders were frustrated by the higher import valuation, which they argue increases their operational costs and reduces competitiveness. The KRA commissioner for customs and border control has defended the change as necessary to improve revenue collection and align with international standards.
Protesters claim the new rules have created financial strain, particularly for small businesses that rely on imported goods. Some traders have called for a review of the policy, citing its impact on local economies. The situation remains tense as authorities continue to monitor the protests and assess the economic implications of the tax adjustment.
