Starting July 1, 2025, all government procurement in Kenya will be conducted exclusively through an electronic platform, President William Ruto has announced. The move, he said, aims to enhance transparency, curb fraud, and eliminate inflated costs that continue to drain public resources.
Speaking during the closing session of the 3rd National Executive Retreat in Karen, the President underscored the importance of accountability in public service. “We should be able to know who has been awarded what tender and at how much. Know how many people participated, and it should be open to everybody,” he said, affirming that there will be no exceptions in the new system.
Citing a recent case where a contract was awarded to a hospital that does not exist, President Ruto emphasized the need for personal responsibility. “Such an audit should take the form of personal responsibility for that officer,” he said, stressing that public officials will be held accountable for any losses arising from fraudulent schemes.
The President also announced a series of financial reforms aimed at sealing revenue loopholes without burdening taxpayers. These include the establishment of a Single Treasury Account to consolidate public funds, the adoption of zero-based budgeting, and a shift from cash-based to accrual accounting.
“Why do we have public funds in all manner of banks earning interest that benefits individuals?” he questioned, adding that such inefficiencies will no longer be tolerated.
To complement the procurement overhaul, the government has digitised services and is pushing for full compliance with the online payment system. Ruto noted that resistance to digitisation among government agencies will not be entertained.
He further stressed the need to modernise public service, stating that the government will retool civil servants to better serve a younger, more educated, and tech-savvy population. He warned against conflict of interest in procurement, urging officials to serve the public rather than personal gain.
President Ruto concluded by calling for unity within the Executive, urging leaders to work as one government devoid of silos, to deliver efficient and accountable governance to Kenyans.
