Tech
Smartphone Tax Trap: Why a 25% Levy on Phones Could Silence Kenya’s Digital Youth
The Finance Bill 2026 proposes a 25% excise duty on all mobile phones (smartphones) when they are activated on a network. Many young Kenyans fear this will make phones more expensive and hurt education, business, and online opportunities. The government says it is not a new tax but a simplification of existing charges. This article explains the proposal, the fears, and its possible effects on Kenya’s digital youth.