What is Whistleblowing

Whistleblowing is an avenue created by law or policy to raise concerns about the affairs of an organization without fear of retaliation. In most cases a whistleblower discloses information to the public or some higher authority about any wrongdoing, which could be in the form of fraud, corruption or something else.

There are two types of whistleblowing i.e. internal and external whistleblowing. In the context of the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), internal whistle blowing is when employees raise concern over any wrong doing within the organization; while external whistleblowing is where members of the public report tax malpractices against companies/individuals or wrong doing by KRA staff.

Tax Evasion & Avoidance

While most taxpayers strive to comply with their tax obligations, some are determined not to. Tax evasion and corruption related malpractices continue to occur, leading to substantial loss in potential revenue collection. Not only is this against the law and defrauds the government of its revenue, but it also creates an unequal playing field for compliant taxpayers. Whistle blowing is essential for resource mobilization, protection from illicit trade and promotion of a fair business environment.

How to Report Tax Malpractices

KRA has provided several whistleblowing channels for raising concerns related to tax evasion and corruption related malpractices. These channels include: 

• Anonymous reporting system: iWhistle (kra.go.ke)
• Telephone: 0709 01 7700/7800 or 0800 721 888 (Toll Free)
• Email: corruptionreporting@kra.go.ke or cic@kra.go.ke
• Walk-in: Complaints & Information Centre (CIC) on 26th floor, Times Tower;
• Write:

Commissioner General

Complaints & Information Centre (CIC)

Kenya Revenue Authority

P.O. Box 48240-00100, Nairobi

To foster trust and confidentiality in the whistle blowing process, KRA introduced an anonymous reporting system in 2020 known as . The platform allows whistle blowers to create anonymous accounts and submit incidences. Other features of the system include a chatting mechanism, which allows interaction with the back office while retaining their anonymity; attaching of supporting evidence and optional rewarding.

The main objective of the whistle blowing programme is to seal revenue leakages and suppress tax malpractices, hence increased revenue collection. Members of the public are urged to disclose information on tax evasion and corruption related malpractices, in good faith. This will enable KRA take appropriate action through investigation, audit, prosecution, or imposing fines. See it. Report it. #PigaFirimbi

As Albert Einstein once said, “The world is a dangerous place, not because of those who do evil, but because of those who look on and do nothing.”

By: Mary Njoroge

Complaints & Corruption Reporting Office, KRA.