Auditor-General Nancy Gathungu has recommended sweeping reforms to strengthen governance, financial accountability, and operational efficiency of the Government’s eCitizen digital payment platform.
In a new audit review, Gathungu raised concerns over gaps in oversight, financial management, and operational control within the widely used government portal, warning that the current system requires urgent improvements to safeguard public funds and ensure transparency.
The Auditor-General noted that the platform, which allows Kenyans to access and pay for various government services online, lacks a comprehensive governance structure to guide its management and operations. She emphasized the need for clear frameworks that define roles, responsibilities, and accountability among the agencies involved in running the system.
Gathungu also recommended enhanced financial monitoring mechanisms to ensure all revenue collected through the portal is properly accounted for and remitted to the relevant government institutions. The eCitizen platform handles billions of shillings annually from services such as passport applications, business registrations, and driving licence renewals.
Additionally, the audit called for improvements in operational efficiency, including stronger system controls, better reporting structures, and enhanced security measures to protect user data and financial transactions.
The recommendations come amid increasing reliance on the digital platform as the government continues to shift more public services online. The portal has become a central gateway for millions of citizens seeking services from ministries, departments, and agencies.
