ICTworks by Inveneo

When we talk of ICT, we often focus just on computers. I know I am guilty of this many times, even though I'm a strong proponent of FM radio too.

So its great to have this reminder from Linda Raftree in ICT4D in Uganda – "ICT" does not equal "computers"

“We initially thought that when you talk of ICT you refer to the computer guys only, but our minds have now been opened further on the topic. We’ve learned that ‘ICT’ does not equal ‘computers’. Instead, the term ICT encompasses any technology tool that enables information flow and communication.” (participant)

This always seems to come up in these trainings – people realize that thinking about and using ICTs is not something that is limited to technicians, geeks, network specialists, programmers, the IT Department, etc. Demystifying this term is so important in order to get people interested and to open up to thinking about how ICTs can support their every day work.

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To great fanfare, Kenya Revenue Authority eliminated customs duties on the import of new computers into Kenya recently. Their FAQ even says:

Andris preparing computers for shipping

Q7. What duties are levied on computers?

Computers and computer parts do not attract any duty. However, printers attract import duty at the rate of 10% and VAT at the rate of 16%.

But do not let that lull you into thinking that there isn't a cost associated with importing computers into Kenya.

While there isn't an actual duty, there are still fees. You'll need to pay at least 5,000 Kenyan Shillings ($65 USD), plus 2.25% of the total value, to process the Import Declaration Fee (IDF) which is payable to the government. Then you'll also need to pay a licensed clearing agent a handling fee to clear the computing equipment at customs.

These fees are in addition to any shipping costs to get your computer equipment from its point of origin to either the Port of Mombasa or one of Kenya's international airports.