State must not rely on debt to finance budget

Kenya’s rising deficit and debt underscore the need for tax reforms, spending discipline, and structural change to secure fiscal sustainability.

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Kenya’s fiscal year 2026-27 Budget presents both an opportunity and a warning. With total expenditure projected at Sh4.8 trillion against expected revenues of approximately Sh3.7 trillion from ordinary taxes, appropriations-in-aid, and grants, the government faces a fiscal deficit of about Sh1.15 trillion.

This gap will largely be financed through domestic and external borrowing, adding to an already substantial public debt stock estimated at Sh13 trillion.

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Note: The results are not exact but very close to the actual.