Kenya’s Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing, and Urban Development has taken a significant step towards modernization by introducing the Ardhipay system for cashless revenue collection. This bold initiative, launched under the State Department for Lands and Physical Planning, aims to revolutionize the way land transactions are conducted and revenue is collected, with far-reaching implications for efficiency and transparency.

Cash transactions in government offices have long been susceptible to embezzlement and inefficiencies. The Ardhipay system promises to address these issues head-on, reducing the risk of corruption and ensuring that every penny of revenue reaches its intended destination. Cabinet Secretary Zachariah Njeru emphasizes that the move is driven by a commitment to improved service delivery for citizens, making transactions faster and more efficient.

One of the key features of Ardhipay is its integration with the eCitizen platform, streamlining payment processes and providing a secure digital infrastructure. This not only fosters accountability but also allows for precise and timely reporting in revenue collection, further enhancing the government’s ability to serve its citizens.

The success of the cashless policy is already evident in the 18 offices where it has been implemented, including major cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu. The Ministry’s plan to extend the initiative to all 94 Land offices within 14 days is a testament to its commitment to embracing digital transformation fully.

To ensure a smooth transition, the Ministry is providing training for dedicated field office staff and conducting public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on the ease of making digital payments. Moreover, demonstrating the convenience of the Ardhisasa platform for Land Rent payments will go a long way in encouraging public participation.