President William Ruto’s Visionary Tribute to Innovation and Progress
By John Waithaka
In his latest State of the Nation Address, President William Ruto emphasized the transformative role of technology in revolutionizing government operations, with a spotlight on the e-Citizen platform. His Excellency praised the groundbreaking strides in automating and digitizing public services, heralding a new era of efficiency, transparency, and accountability in Kenya’s governance.
“We have achieved remarkable progress by automating and digitizing our systems through e-Citizen,” the President declared. “From just 350 digitized services in 2022, we have scaled to an astounding 20,855 government services today—a phenomenal growth of nearly 6,000%.”
This unparalleled expansion has not only streamlined service delivery but also significantly boosted revenue collection across various government institutions. Among the standout beneficiaries of this digital revolution is the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), a shining example of technological innovation at work.
The President highlighted, “In the year ending June 30, 2023, KWS generated KSh 5.3 billion in revenue. Following the adoption of a digital revenue collection system, this figure surged to KSh 7.6 billion by June 30, 2024, reflecting an extraordinary 43% growth.”
This achievement has set KWS on the path to financial independence, drastically reducing its reliance on government funding. It serves as a compelling case study of how technology can reshape public institutions, driving them toward efficiency and sustainability.
“I commend the KWS team for their dedication and innovation,” the President remarked, “and extend my appreciation to all government entities that have embraced digital solutions to enhance revenue collection and service delivery.”
The digitization agenda is a cornerstone of the government’s broader vision to enhance accountability, eliminate inefficiencies, and foster self-reliance within public institutions. With these efforts gaining momentum, they pave the way for a brighter future where technology is a powerful catalyst for economic growth and national development.
This remarkable progress is a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to building a more prosperous Kenya. As the country advances on its digital transformation journey, the promise of a tech-driven future inspires hope for generations to come.