The Government has set an ambitious target of collecting at least Sh1 billion (approximately $8.9 million USD) in daily revenue through its eCitizen platform by December 2024.

This significant increase hinges on a major expansion of the platform's user base, aiming to reach 30 million subscribers.

Currently, the eCitizen platform boasts 13 million users and generates Sh700 million (approximately $6.2 million USD) daily.

"The revenue figure will increase from the current Sh700 million by increasing the number of Citizen users from 13 million," explained Immigration and Citizen Services Principal Secretary Julius Bitok.

Boosting Subscriptions and Accessibility

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The government plans to achieve this ambitious target through a two-pronged approach.

Firstly, it will focus on ensuring all eligible Kenyans possess a national identification card, a prerequisite for eCitizen registration.

This includes simplifying the process for obtaining an ID, particularly for residents in border communities, by eliminating vetting committees.

“We have removed vetting for identity documents which is an effort to ensure no Kenyan is left out or discriminated as far as getting the documents is," Bitok announced

concerned.”

Secondly, the government will launch an aggressive publicity campaign highlighting the benefits of eCitizen.

This platform offers 24-hour access to over 16,000 government services, eliminating the need for physical visits to government offices.

Data Security and Privacy Take Center Stage

The exponential growth in eCitizen usage necessitates robust data security measures.

The government has emphasized its commitment to data protection and privacy.

"To protect the large volumes of data involved in eCitizen operations, the PS said periodic data impact assessments, data safety audits and compulsory MoUs [Memorandums of Understanding] with third-party data handlers are being undertaken," the article states.

The Data Commissioner, Immaculate Kassait, expressed satisfaction with the government's efforts to safeguard data security and privacy concerns.

The Maisha Card: A Secure Future

The government is also banking on the new digital identity card, dubbed the "Maisha Card," to enhance the security of the eCitizen platform.

This card, along with its supporting ecosystem, promises a more secure registration system, minimizing the risk of forgery and identity theft.

Furthermore, the introduction of a Unique Personal Identifier (Maisha Namba) assigned at birth will eliminate the need for multiple data collections by various government institutions, reducing the potential for data breaches.

This ambitious project signifies the Kenyan government's commitment to digital transformation and streamlining access to government services.

As the project progresses, it will be crucial to monitor its effectiveness in achieving its financial goals while upholding data security and privacy for all Kenyans.