TUKO.co.ke journalist Ivan Mboto has over three years of experience reporting on politics and current affairs in Kenya

Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has expressed gratitude to President William Ruto for authorising the duty-free importation of dates throughout the month of Ramadan.

He acknowledged this initiative as a gesture of inclusivity and support for Kenya's Muslim community.

In a statement issued on Monday, February 24, Duale noted that the president's decision is an indication of his dedication to promoting religious harmony and national cohesion, regardless of faith.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to H.E President William Ruto for the government's unwavering support and solidarity with the Kenya's muslim community through the importation of duty-free dates for this year's holy month of Ramadan,” Duale stated.

He further noted, “This notable initiative eases access to this essential fruit for iftar and further reflects the government's commitment to fostering religious inclusivity and national unity.”

Ruto's tax waiver approval was in response to a petition from the Supreme Council of Kenyan Muslims (SUPKEM), which requested the government to waive certain customs charges on date imports during Ramadan.

In a letter seen by , Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi confirmed the government’s acceptance of two key requests.

Although the government agreed to facilitate the import process, it maintained that import duty and VAT would still apply, as existing laws do not provide for a full tax exemption.

Dates imported for Ramadan use will be exempt from Import Declaration Form (IDF) and Railway Development Levy (RDL) charges, easing the financial burden on importers.

The letter also instructed the national chairman of the SUPKEM to provide the necessary documentation for customs clearance to facilitate the duty-free importation.

"By a copy of this letter, the national chairman of SUPKEM is requested to furnish the Commissioner General (Kenya Revenue Authority) with the necessary documentation for customs clearance," the letter read in part.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a sacred time of prayer, fasting, charitable giving, and spiritual reflection for Muslims worldwide. The last ten days are particularly revered, marking the period when the first verses of the Qur'an were revealed to Prophet Muhammad.

Dates hold cultural and religious value, as they are traditionally consumed by Muslims to break their fast during Ramadan before partaking in any other meal.

This practice follows the example set by Muhammad and is a longstanding tradition in the Abrahamic faiths.

In 2025, Ramadan is expected to begin on March 1 and will last for a month, concluding with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr on either March 30 or 31, depending on the lunar sighting.

Source: TUKO.co.ke