The Kenya School of Revenue Administration (KESRA) today held its 21st graduation ceremony themed “to strengthen tax systems and mobilise revenue within Kenya”.
State Department for Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Principal Secretary (PS) Dr.Esther Muoria stated that the theme underscores the importance of competence development and revenue mobilisation for a modern tax administration.
In a speech read on her behalf by a Director of TVET Joseph Njau on Friday during the graduation ceremony in Nairobi, Dr Muoria said effective revenue mobilisation could be achieved when citizens are well equipped with knowledge and adequately empowered to comply with the tax obligations.
She noted that competency development and capacity building programmes in areas such as tax administration enhances economic development.
Dr Muoria said that economic transformation requires intense training and capacity development.
“A competent human capital is the bedrock of effective governance and economic development,” she added.
The PS encouraged various stakeholders to take advantage of exceptional training and development programmes and called for active contribution in nation building from the graduates who have been equipped with various skills in revenue administration.
“I implore you to always uphold integrity, hard work and patriotism as you conduct your duties. Personal growth is a continuous commitment that culminates in self-awareness, meaning and purpose,” she said.
Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga stated that the theme resonates with KRA’s commitment to fostering a professional workforce equipped with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of modern tax systems.
He recognised the critical roles that the graduates are expected to play in advancing and fortifying the economic development of the nation.
“I acknowledge the competencies that you have acquired will empower you to tackle the challenges in taxation, applying emerging technologies and enhancing overall efficiency in tax administration,” Wattanga emphasised.
He announced that KRA is laying the groundwork for a robust tax system that not only supports revenue mobilisation but also catalyses simplification of tax processes.
Echoing the words of the PS, Wattanga stated that evolving global dynamics demand continuous investment in knowledge and skills to build a modern resilient tax administration.
“Dedication to mastering new competencies whether in tax administration or policies is vital for adaptability, innovation and effectiveness of tax operations,” he stressed.
The Commissioner General underscored the fact that in the last financial year 2023-2024, over 7,000 KRA staff were trained in various programmes by KESRA and thanked the management.
He announced that in the new financial year, they would be reintroducing the graduate training programme to impart their staff with the essential skills, knowledge and experience.
“This initiative will not only enhance the professional capabilities of our new recruits but will also contribute significantly to the sustainable development of tax administration systems,” stated Wattanga.
The Commissioner General encouraged the graduates to embrace their new responsibilities using their knowledge and skills to shape the nation’s future.
By Manu Mumba
