The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Customs and Border Control Department registered its highest-ever monthly revenue in July 2026, collecting Ksh92.53 billion. This figure exceeded the Treasury's target of Ksh86.16 billion by Ksh6.37 billion, representing a 107.39% performance rate and marking a 15.3% increase compared to July 2025 collections of Ksh80.29 billion.

The record-breaking collection is attributed to enhanced customs revenue mobilisation, improved compliance, and expanded use of technology in customs operations. This achievement follows closely on the heels of June 2026's previous record of Ksh89.1 billion, indicating sustained growth in customs revenue.

Non-Oil Revenue Milestone

A key driver of the strong performance was a significant rise in non-oil revenue, which reached Ksh61.50 billion—the first time non-oil collections surpassed the Ksh60 billion threshold in KRA's history. This diversification reduces reliance on petroleum-related taxes and contributes to a more stable revenue base for the government.

Technology and Trade Facilitation

KRA credits the July success to several factors, including:

  • Improved tax compliance and enforcement
  • Technology-driven customs administration
  • Enhanced cargo management
  • Measures to facilitate legitimate trade at borders and the Port of Mombasa

Customs and Border Control Commissioner Lilian Nyawanda highlighted that the authority's investments in digital systems and data analytics have streamlined cargo processing, reduced delays, and strengthened controls against illicit trade and revenue leakage.

Strategic Impact

The Port of Mombasa, a vital gateway for Kenya and neighbouring countries, benefits from reforms such as digital cargo processing and risk-based inspections, which improve transparency and predictability for traders.

KRA's continued focus on modernising customs operations supports the government's broader goals to increase domestic revenue, finance development projects, and reduce borrowing pressure. The record collection at the start of the 2026/27 financial year underscores the growing importance of non-oil revenue streams in Kenya's tax strategy.