In a recent statement that has sparked widespread debate, a young Kenyan has voiced concerns that the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) is attempting to spy on citizens by requiring the registration of International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers for all mobile devices entering the country. This new directive, effective from January 1, 2025, mandates that travelers and importers declare their mobile devices and provide IMEI numbers upon entry into Kenya.
The KRA, in collaboration with the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), has introduced this measure as part of a broader effort to enhance tax compliance and curb the influx of counterfeit devices. According to the KRA, the registration of IMEI numbers will help ensure that all mobile devices used in Kenya are properly registered and meet regulatory standards.
However, critics argue that this requirement raises significant privacy concerns. The young Kenyan, who has become a vocal critic of the policy, claims that the government could use the IMEI database to monitor and track citizens’ movements and activities. “KRA wants to spy on Kenyans,” he stated, reflecting the fears of many who worry about potential misuse of personal data.
[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://tech-ish.com/2024/11/06/kenya-imei-kra-tax-registration/?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 “3”).
Privacy advocates have echoed these concerns, highlighting the risks associated with creating a centralized database of IMEI numbers. They argue that without robust data protection measures, the system could be vulnerable to breaches, exposing sensitive information to unauthorized parties
Additionally, there are fears that the IMEI registration system could be exploited for surveillance purposes, undermining citizens’ privacy rights.
The KRA has defended the policy, emphasizing its importance in combating tax evasion and ensuring the quality of mobile devices in the market. The authority has also assured the public that the data collected will be used solely for regulatory purposes and will be protected under existing data protection laws.
[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://www.kbc.co.ke/travellers-to-kenya-to-declare-mobile-imei-number-from-january/?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 “1”)[43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054](https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2024-11-05-kra-to-importers-and-travelers-you-must-declare-your-mobile-imei-numbers?citationMarker=43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054 “2”)
