In a momentous move towards modernization, Kenyans can now access over 5,000 government services online.

This milestone was announced by President William Ruto, who emphasized that this digital transformation will enhance efficiency and inclusivity in service delivery.

The unveiling of the Digital Government Services, known as Gava Mkononi, took place on Friday at the prestigious Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi.

Ruto highlighted the numerous benefits of this digital system, stating it "eliminates inefficiency, corruption, wastage, and discrimination that is inherent in human interactions."

The President further emphasized that previously marginalized communities will no longer be excluded from government services. The digitization efforts aim to bridge gaps, ensuring that every Kenyan has equal access to vital services.

Read More

  1. Ruto reshuffles Cabinet, foreign missions, state agencies in sweeping realignment
  2. Kenya battles rising cyber threats with new security measures
  3. Kenya’s debt soars to Sh10.8 trillion as pressure on finances mounts

The ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, including Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Cabinet Secretaries, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, and representatives from the private sector.

Ruto revealed that the digital services would be accessible through the e-Citizen platform's USSD code *2222# and Gava Express.

To cater to citizens without smartphones, Gava Express will be available in more than 250,000 M-Pesa shops, 28,000 KCB shops, 40,000 Equity shops, and 22,000 Cooperative Bank shops.

“Gava Express will be available in more than 250,000 M-Pesa shops, 28,000 KCB shops, 40,000 Equity shops and 22,000 Cooperative Bank shops to serve those without smartphones,” he explained.

To streamline payment processes, the government will employ a single Pay Bill number, 222 222, which will be managed by the Treasury.

In urging citizens to fully embrace this digital shift, President Ruto encouraged Kenyans to avail themselves of the digital training opportunities provided by the ICT Authority.

The training programs aim to reach 20 million people and equip them with the necessary skills to navigate the digital landscape effectively.

Ruto also announced that the remaining government services will be digitized within 90 days.

Simultaneously, the government will roll out digital identification documents, further facilitating access to services and enhancing security measures.

In a bid to eliminate cash transactions, President Ruto declared that no government service will be paid for in cash within the next month.

This move aligns with the government's commitment to reducing corruption and promoting transparency.

Highlighting the positive impact of digitization on various sectors, ICT Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo announced that the Free Wi-Fi project has been expanded to markets and County Industrial Parks.

This development aims to enhance e-commerce and connectivity across the nation.

Furthermore, Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha emphasized the significance of automation in improving the efficiency and transparency of the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) claims systems.

By digitizing these processes, the government aims to eradicate intermediaries and foster a more transparent healthcare system.