Telecommunication giant Safaricom has scooped the 2020 top taxpayer award in Kenya under the large taxpayers’ category.

The Kenya Revenue Authority recognized Safaricom for “outstanding contribution to the development of our economy through diligent payment of taxes.”

Safaricom Chief Executive Officer Peter Ndegwa said: “We also acknowledge that this recognition of top taxpayer, which we have now won 13 years in a row, is a result of our commitment to make a difference by supporting the economy through job creation, duties and taxes and meaningful partnerships.” 

In the financial year 2020, Safaricom wired Kes.98 billion in duties and taxes, in addition to Kes.20 billion in dividends to the exchequer.

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In the trading period under review, Safaricom sustained over one million jobs directly and indirectly while spending Kes.58 billion with goods and services suppliers in the country.

In the past five years, Safaricom’s aggregate taxes have amounted to Kes.409 billion, including Kes.95 billion in dividends.

“We are here today with the blessings of His Excellency the President, to present you with the award for the Top Taxpayer of the year 2020. This award represents His Excellency’s recognition for Safaricom as the Top Taxpayer for having demonstrated highest tax revenue and exceptional compliance in payment and filing across all tax heads,” said Dr Rispah Simiyu, Commissioner, Domestic Taxes Department, Kenya Revenue Authority.

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Safaricom continues to roll out measures to cushion customers and Kenyans from the adverse impact of Covid-19 pandemic economic fallout and has contributed over Kes.10 billion in cash, goods and services towards the fight against the disease.

The company is calling on the government to balance revenue recovery with encouraging business renewal and growth even as the pandemic enters its second year and focus shifts to post-pandemic revival of the economy.