From the talks, the African group proposed a framework convention rather than a single treaty. UN Economic and Social Council Financing for Development Forum convened from 20–24 April 2026. /HANDOUT Kenya and other United Nations member countries have resumed talks aimed at granting states more powers to tax multinational firms.
This, as UN Economic and Social Council Financing for Development Forum convened from 20–24 April 2026, where African countries want global rules to better protect their taxing rights and curb tax evasion by global companies. The convention could unlock billions in additional tax revenues for Kenya, which could have more say in taxation on multinationals.
These include technology and social media giants such as Google, Meta Platforms Inc., which covers Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, Microsoft (registered for VAT and Digital Services Tax) providing cloud and data services and the likes of Amazon among others.
It cold also help Kenya strengthen its fight against illicit financial flows following an earlier adoption of the new United Nations-led framework. The adoption marked a shift from a system that had long been dominated by institutions such as the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, which have been guiding taxation for global organisations.
“The 2025 Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development reaffirmed the need for stronger international tax cooperation and a more inclusive, effective global tax system, reinforcing momentum behind the UNFCITC process,” said Tax Justice Network Africa executive director, Chenai Mukumba.
“As the financing for development forum meets from 20–24 April 2026, these debates continue to shape Africa’s role in efforts to reform the global financial architecture.” From the talks, the African group proposed a framework convention rather than a single treaty.
This format allows for the establishment of general principles while also permitting specific protocols.