Safaricom's cashless payment systems have significantly enhanced financial management for Kenyan counties, reducing revenue leakages and generating up to 30% higher income, according to the telecommunications company.
The initiative, part of Safaricom's digital-first economy strategy, enables seamless citizen payments while providing counties with tools for financial planning and oversight. Rita Okuthe, Chief Enterprise Officer, highlighted that 43 counties have partnered with the company, with 17 achieving full system integration.
Okuthe noted that some counties saw revenue tripling after implementing the systems, with Kiambu County serving as an early adopter. The county's ERP system, linked to M-PESA, allows real-time settlements through Paybills, streamlining transactions and improving service accessibility.
Samuel Karanja, Kiambu's ICT officer, explained that the system permits 24/7 payments, such as parking fees as early as 5 a.m., contrasting with previous limitations. The integrated ERP platform facilitates immediate bank transfers via Real-Time Settlement, ensuring transparent financial tracking.
The 17 fully integrated counties include Usain Gishu, Kiambu, Kajiado, Nairobi, Nyeri, Laikipia, Nakuru, Mombasa, Kwale, Vihiga, Kisumu, Taita Taveta, Kitui, Makueni, Kericho, Kilifi, and Nandi.
