Shadowy Firms Earn Sh1.45bn on eCitizen
Concerns have emerged over the earnings of shadowy firms linked to Kenya’s eCitizen platform, with reports indicating they have collectively amassed Sh1.45 billion from digital transactions.
The revelations have sparked calls for greater transparency in the management of the platform, which serves as the country’s primary portal for accessing government services. Lawmakers and civil society groups have raised questions about the identities of these firms and the nature of their contracts with the government.
Despite eCitizen’s role in streamlining service delivery and revenue collection, critics argue that the lack of disclosure on firms benefiting from transaction fees undermines public trust. “We need a full audit of these payments to ensure accountability,” a senior official from the Auditor-General’s office remarked.
Government officials have pledged to investigate the matter, with Treasury and ICT ministry representatives indicating plans to review contractual agreements and revenue-sharing structures.
The controversy adds to ongoing debates about governance in Kenya’s digital transformation efforts. Analysts warn that unchecked financial flows within digital service platforms could create loopholes for corruption and mismanagement.
As scrutiny intensifies, stakeholders are calling for regulatory reforms to enhance transparency in digital revenue collection and ensure that public funds are managed responsibly.