Counties Urged to Digitize Services for Equitable and Citizen-Friendly Delivery

The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) has urged counties and the national government to prioritize digitization of engineering approvals, saying it will improve service delivery for citizens and ensure equitable access across the country.

Speaking during the event at Devolution Conference in Homa Bay, IEK President Eng. Shammah Kiteme said digital systems would cut delays in infrastructure approvals and allow citizens to benefit from projects delivered on time.

“Kenyans deserve efficient services. Digital approvals will ensure that infrastructure projects from roads to schools are not held back by unnecessary red tape,” Kiteme said.

First IEK Vice President Eng Christine Ogut emphasized that equity must guide digitization. She pointed to successful examples in the transport sector, where public service vehicles and commercial vehicles are already onboarded on digital platforms for inspections, tax compliance, and insurance verification.

“When all counties digitize their services, citizens everywhere will have equal access. No one should be left behind,” she said.

Ogut also highlighted the importance of resilience and cybersecurity, warning that citizens must trust the systems they use.

“Digital platforms face risks like downtime and breaches. Counties must invest in strong security and backup systems to protect public services,” she added.

Discussions at the event underscored how interconnected systems can make citizen services more seamless. By linking county platforms with national agencies such as the Kenya Roads Board, Kenya Revenue Authority, and insurers, citizens would be able to access multiple services from a single digital platform.

Stakeholders agreed that such reforms would not only improve efficiency but also make public services more transparent and responsive to citizen needs. With interagency data-sharing agreements, members of the public could verify approvals and compliance themselves, giving them confidence in government processes.

Engineers said the ultimate goal is a service delivery model that is fast, fair, and citizen-centered. “Digital platforms are about giving Kenyans dignity in how they access services,” Kiteme said.

“They ensure equity, accountability, and efficiency the hallmarks of good governance.”they added.