NAIROBI, Kenya Jan 30 – The government has waived import fees on dates ahead of the Holy Month of Ramadan, a move Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale says will make the essential food more available and affordable for Muslims across the country.
Duale thanked President William Ruto for what he called strong government support and solidarity with Kenya’s Muslim community as Ramadan approaches.
The holy month is expected to begin on February 19, 2026.
“This thoughtful intervention enhances the availability and affordability of dates for Iftar,” Duale said, adding that it reflects the government’s commitment to religious inclusion, mutual respect and national unity.
Dates are traditionally used to break the fast during Ramadan and are in high demand during the period.
Any increase in price or shortage often affects low-income families the most.
The waiver follows requests made by both the Office of the Deputy President and the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM).
In December 2025, discussions held during a consultative meeting on drought mitigation, food security and protection of vulnerable groups highlighted the need for early importation of dates ahead of Ramadan.
SUPKEM later formally asked the government to exempt dates imported for Ramadan from all taxes to ease the burden on Muslim families.
In a letter dated January 16, 2026, the National Treasury confirmed that it had approved part of the request.
Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi said the government would exempt imported dates from the Import Declaration Fee (IDF) and the Railway Development Levy (RDL).
The Treasury also committed to paying import duty and Value Added Tax (VAT) on the dates, noting that current laws do not allow a full tax exemption.
The tax relief will apply to dates imported between February 12 and March 20, 2026, covering the entire Ramadan period.
The Kenya Revenue Authority has been instructed to work with SUPKEM to ensure smooth customs clearance once the required documents are submitted.
