Huduma Centres across the country will soon issue smart cards that will negate the need to carry cash to pay for services.
Under the new cashless system, Kenyans will enjoy more transparent and efficient delivery of the array of services offered at all 13 Huduma Centres.
According to a report released by the Ministry of Devolution and Planning, the system is also geared to reduce the risk associated with carrying and holding cash for the government agencies.
“The Huduma Kenya Smart Card will minimize the risk of carrying cash, reduce incidences of corruption, minimize pilferage of government funds and reduce the time it takes to get services,” the report states.
The card will also be able to pay for private sector transactions.
The modalities regarding how citizens will get the cards and which private sector transactions they will be able to pay for are yet to be worked out.
The report also outlines plans to roll out a slew of other ICT changes, including a toll-free telephone service and a web and mobile based interactive platform to further improve service delivery.
The platforms, titled E and M Huduma Portal, will provide integrated government services 24 hours a day while ensuring that citizens conveniently access public services anywhere.
The portals will initially provide informational services in this financial year but will be up-scaled with time to be transactional portals with the continued automation of government service processes.
The changes are expected to be in effect by the end of June this year.
The government also plans to set up a further 13 Huduma Centres to improve accessibility in more regions of the country before the end of this financial year.
Currently, Huduma Centres are a one-stop-shop for services such as registration for ID cards, National Social Security Fund as well as National Hospital Insurance Fund.
One can also apply for a business permits and a driving license at the centres.
