Automation way to go to reduce waste

Kenya: As a way of controlling the waste in Government that leads to billions in lost revenue, the move by the Ministry of Information Communication and Technology to make most transaction’s paperless was long overdue.

In fact, as part of the e-Government initiative, it should see a reduction in the need for storage space for the thousands of files generated every month in the normal course of Government operations.

It should also reduce the number of those queuing to access Government services in various offices across the country.

Cutting down on paper will also reduce the annual bill for stationery. Procurement of such items are among those most riddled with corruption with a simple ballpoint pen being procured at sometimes three times the actual cost.

The Government says the move will also save it billions spent in procuring and maintaining photocopiers and printers. Of course one could also say that by cutting down on the paperwork, many of the paper pushers in Government are likely to find themselves out of work as part of measures to reduce the huge public service wage bill.

It goes without saying that the success of the system will depend on its integrity. In other words, it must be tamper proof to prevent manipulation of data.

Whichever way one looks at it, this is the most pragmatic move yet by the Government to reduce waste. Automation of services should also extend to financial transactions so as to limit handling of cash by officials as a way of reducing corruption.

Use of mobile money to pay bills has already proven successful for Kenya Power, Kenya Revenue Authority and Nairobi Water Company for example.

Of course certain strategic transactions, including approvals for contracts and others that require signed documents will still mean that some printing has to take place. Regardless, full adoption of e-Government is the way to go.