Small traders in Nairobi have escalated their protests against the Kenya Revenue Authority’s (KRA) new customs valuation rule, which raises the minimum threshold for consolidated cargo from Ksh2.5 million to Ksh3.2 million. Demonstrators marched through the city’s Central Business District (CBD), clashing with police who used tear gas to disperse the crowd. The protests, which began as a call for dialogue, have turned into daily confrontations as traders demand a reduction in the tax burden.
The KRA introduced the revised benchmark to increase revenue, but small business owners argue it is financially crippling. Many cannot meet the new threshold, forcing them to pay higher taxes on goods they cannot afford. Some traders have vowed to continue their demonstrations every Friday until the KRA agrees to negotiate.
Authorities have warned of legal consequences for those involved in the protests, but the unrest shows no sign of slowing. The situation highlights growing tensions between regulatory bodies and local businesses, with traders claiming the new rule undermines their ability to operate.
The protests have drawn attention from both local and national media, with reports detailing the scale of the demonstrations and the police response. As the standoff continues, the outcome remains uncertain, with neither side showing immediate willingness to compromise.
