Mombasa Empowerment Community-Based Organisation (CBO) is set to host a two-day tax and port compliance awareness sensitisation forum aimed at equipping its members with essential knowledge on tax obligations and regulatory procedures.

The awareness campaign, to be conducted in partnership with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Mombasa office, will feature expert presentations on key areas including tax return filing, withholding tax, simplified tax filing platforms, and the use of AI-powered tools to enhance compliance.

Participants will also be taken through procurement procedures, special tax tables, and other statutory obligations relevant to businesses operating within the coastal and port economy.

Speaking ahead of the forum, Mombasa Empowerment CBO Chairperson Evans Momanyi said the initiative is designed to empower members with practical skills while fostering a cooperative relationship with government institutions.

"This is an opportunity for our members to be informed and equipped with the right skills to comply with tax and port regulations,” Momanyi said.

He emphasized that the CBO is keen on promoting partnership rather than confrontation with tax authorities.

“We don’t want to be seen as an enemy of KRA or the government, but as a partner. Compliance becomes easier when there is understanding and engagement,” he noted.

Momanyi further revealed that the organisation is exploring ways to collaborate with KRA beyond compliance, including joint Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities that benefit the wider community.

“We want to work closely with KRA not just on tax matters but also in supporting community initiatives through CSR,” he added.

The forum is expected to attract CBO members involved in trade, logistics, and small and medium enterprises, particularly those whose operations are linked to the Port of Mombasa.