Nairobi records highest-ever Ksh.15.4 billion own-source revenue collection

Benjamin Muriuki
By Benjamin Muriuki July 05, 2026 10:48 (EAT)
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Nairobi records highest-ever Ksh.15.4 billion own-source revenue collection

File image of the Nairobi County government headquarters at City Hall.

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Nairobi City County has recorded its highest-ever own-source revenue collection, raising Ksh15.4 billion during the 2025/2026 financial year, according to county revenue data.

The county collected Ksh15.399 billion, up from Ksh13.8 billion in the 2024/2025 financial year, representing an increase of Ksh1.6 billion. The latest figure is also nearly double the approximately Ksh8 billion the county collected annually four years ago, marking a 92.5 per cent increase over the period.

Land rates remained the county's largest source of own revenue, generating Ksh3.31 billion, followed by hospital services at Ksh2.73 billion, Unified Business Permits at Ksh2.68 billion, parking fees at Ksh1.78 billion and building plans and inspections at Ksh1.56 billion. Other revenue streams included billboard advertising, house and stall rent, liquor licensing, markets and food handlers' certificates.

County officials attributed the improved performance to reforms aimed at reducing revenue leakages, digitising payment systems and simplifying compliance for residents and businesses.

Governor Johnson Sakaja said the rollout of the Nairobi Pay digital platform had streamlined revenue collection by reducing cash transactions and centralising payments.

"Nairobi Pay has brought transparency, convenience and accountability to revenue collection. By eliminating cash transactions and digitising payments, we have sealed loopholes, improved efficiency and made it easier for residents and businesses to pay for county services. This is proof that technology can increase revenue without increasing taxes," Sakaja said.
The county also cited the introduction of the Unified Business Permit, which consolidates several business licences into a single permit, as well as reforms in the management of Level 4 and Level 5 hospitals and the digitisation of liquor licensing, as measures that contributed to higher collections.

Sakaja said the additional revenue would support investment in roads, health services, markets, drainage, street lighting and other public services.

Receiver of Revenue Tiras Njoroge said digitisation had strengthened accountability and improved compliance.

"The success we are witnessing is the result of sustained reforms that have digitised revenue collection, eliminated leakages and simplified payment processes. Our focus remains on expanding the revenue base, improving compliance and ensuring every payment is secure, transparent and convenient for residents and businesses alike," Njoroge said.

The record collection is expected to strengthen Nairobi City's fiscal position by increasing the county's capacity to finance development projects and improve service delivery while reducing reliance on transfers from the national government.

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