Information, Communication and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo on Monday, March 10, announced that plans were underway to transition all government operations to a paperless system.
In a statement following a meeting with a delegation from the Tony Blair Institute (TBI), Kabogo revealed that the pilot programme had already commenced at the ministry.
"We have begun piloting paperless correspondence at the Ministry of Information, Communication and the Digital Economy to eliminate bureaucracies that slow down service delivery," part of the statement read.
In addition to eliminating bureaucratic delays, he added that fully digitising government operations would promote transparency, enhance efficiency, and improve project tracking.
Once the pilot phase at the ICT Ministry succeeds, CS Kabogo stated that the system would be rolled out to all other Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to streamline government operations.
Kabogo further noted that he had engaged the TBI team to seek the provision of critical technical support in e-government and e-commerce and to help build a more digitally driven public service.
"I extend my gratitude to TBI for their seconded technical advisors and unwavering support," he stated.
This announcement comes just a few days after the ICT CS stated that his ministry was working towards making the Internet an essential service in Kenya.
While appearing before the National Assembly Committee on Communication, Information and Innovation on Thursday, Kabogo stated that the move was in line with efforts to create more work opportunities for Kenyans.
"I also informed the committee that I am preparing a Cabinet Memo to propose classifying the Internet as an essential service, a step that will ensure universal access and digital empowerment for all Kenyans," he stated.
"We remain committed to bridging the digital divide and creating more opportunities for our people through technology and innovation."
He also highlighted several strides made in pursuit of digitising public services in the country, including the creation of 19,650 new jobs in Business Process Outsourcing (BPO), surpassing the 10,000 target.
