The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Customs and Border Control Department has recorded its highest-ever monthly revenue collection, amassing Ksh92.53 billion in July 2026. This figure exceeded the Treasury’s target of Ksh86.16 billion by Ksh6.37 billion, marking a significant milestone at the start of the 2026/27 financial year.
According to a KRA press release dated August 12, 2026, the July revenue reflects a 15.3% increase compared to the Ksh80.29 billion collected in the same month last year. This achievement follows the department's previous record in June 2026, when it collected Ksh89.1 billion.
Growth Driven by Non-Oil Revenue
A key factor behind the July performance was the surge in non-oil revenue, which reached Ksh61.50 billion—the first time this segment has surpassed the Ksh60 billion mark. Dr Lilian Nyawanda, Commissioner for Customs and Border Control, highlighted that the record collection underscores the impact of investments in technology, compliance, trade facilitation, and stakeholder collaboration.
"We remain focused on easing trade for compliant businesses while ensuring full revenue collection for the government," Dr Nyawanda stated.
Reforms and Technology Boost Revenue Mobilisation
The KRA Customs department has been implementing reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and predictability in customs operations. These include leveraging data and technology for cargo risk management, speeding up declaration processing, and enforcing measures against illicit trade and revenue leakage.
The improved revenue collection supports government financing for development priorities and strengthens the department’s role in national revenue mobilisation.
Outlook
With two consecutive record-breaking months, KRA aims to sustain this momentum by continuing to promote compliance, adopt technology-driven customs administration, and facilitate legitimate trade across Kenya’s borders and the Port of Mombasa.
