NAIROBI- As the holy of Ramadhan approaches, the Government has on Monday, approved the importation of tax-free dates for use during Ramadhan.
In a statement, Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndung’u stated that the dates will also not be subjected to Import Declaration Fee and Railway Development Levy.
The statement noted that in the previous years, the government in support of the Muslim community allowed the duty-free importation of dates in the absence of legal provision for waivers.
“During this period, the Muslims are expected to break their fast at sundown and each evening by consuming dates prior to any other foods,” the statement read in part.
Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale welcomed the move, stating that it will enable the Muslims to prepare for the Holy month.
“Dates are a staple part of the diet of Muslims throughout the prayer and fasting season.
“I want to thank President William Ruto for his kind gesture of authorising tax waivers on dates imported and cleared,” Duale stated.
Breaking the fast with dates has always been a Ramadan tradition. They are therefore a staple part of the diet throughout the prayer and fasting season. pic.twitter.com/64xYloMv1V
— Hon. Aden Duale, EGH (@HonAdenDuale) March 13, 2023
On his part Mandera governor Mohamed Adan Khalif also welcomed the move by government to exempt taxes from dates during Ramadhan.
“As we prepare for the holy month of Ramadhan, I’m glad to share that the government has authorized duty-free import of dates between 13th March & 30th April 2023. No taxes, import fees, or levies will be charged. I want to express my gratitude to the government for their support.” Said Khalif.
As we prepare for the holy month of Ramadhan, I'm glad to share that the government has authorized duty-free import of dates between 13th March & 30th April 2023. No taxes, import fees, or levies will be charged. I want to express my gratitude to the government for their support. https://t.co/3nJmxuiCPh
— H.E Mohamed Adan Khalif (@MohamedAKhalif) March 14, 2023
The Association of Muslim lawyers have also welcomed the move by government to exempt dates from tax during Ramadhan.
“We would like to extend our appreciation & gratitude for your decision to waive import taxes on dates.This generous act will greatly benefit the muslim community who will be observing this important month of spiritual reflection, fasting & charity” said the association on a statement.
Dear Pres @WilliamsRuto,
We would like to extend our appreciation & gratitude for your decision to waive import taxes on dates.This generous act will greatly benefit the muslim community who will be observing this important month of spiritual reflection, fasting & charity.
1/3 pic.twitter.com/dvvXKPGiiz
— The Association of Muslim Lawyers (@muslim_lawyers) March 13, 2023
Muslim faithful are expected to start observing Ramadhan on March 23 until April 20. Muslims revere Ramadhan where they practice self restraint and refrain from all forms of food and immoral behavior.
Muslims also give out charity and feed the vulnerable people within the society. The fast is considered to be mandatory for every Muslim adult with exemption of a category of people including children, breastfeeding mothers, insane individuals and travelers.
