President William Ruto’s revenue-raising measures, including new taxes and mandatory contributions, are facing renewed scrutiny following a 2026 Human Rights Watch (HRW) report, according to The Star. The report raises concerns over transparency, oversight, and accountability in the management of key public funds introduced to support the government’s flagship programmes—namely the housing levy, Social Health Authority (SHA), and National Social Security Fund (NSSF).
Human Rights Watch Report notes that while tax measures passed in 2024 aimed to fund affordable housing, healthcare, and pensions, many contributors have yet to see clear benefits. The housing levy, in particular, lacks a transparent framework on fund management and beneficiary selection, with lawmakers questioning unaccounted interest earnings from investments in Treasury Bills. In the health sector, SHA contributions have risen sharply, yet patients continue to face barriers to care amid allegations of mismanagement and fraudulent claims. Concerns are also raised over increased NSSF contributions without clear governance safeguards. President Ruto maintains the measures are essential for reducing reliance on external borrowing.
Source: The Star
Human Rights Watch Report notes that while tax measures passed in 2024 aimed to fund affordable housing, healthcare, and pensions, many contributors have yet to see clear benefits. The housing levy, in particular, lacks a transparent framework on fund management and beneficiary selection, with lawmakers questioning unaccounted interest earnings from investments in Treasury Bills. In the health sector, SHA contributions have risen sharply, yet patients continue to face barriers to care amid allegations of mismanagement and fraudulent claims. Concerns are also raised over increased NSSF contributions without clear governance safeguards. President Ruto maintains the measures are essential for reducing reliance on external borrowing.
Source: The Star