Nairobi MCAs Launch Investigation into Struggling Revenue Collection System

In response to a significant downturn in local revenue, Members of the Nairobi County Assembly have initiated a comprehensive investigation into the city’s revenue collection systems.

The ad hoc committee, operating under standing order No.211, aims to unravel the intricacies of the existing systems, identifying weaknesses and strengths, scrutinizing organizational structures, assessing the capabilities of revenue collectors, and engaging key stakeholders.

Chaired by Makongeni MCA, who also serves as the majority leader, the committee has commenced meetings with pivotal witnesses, including County Executive Committee Members (CECMs) for Finance and ICT, County Officials, and service providers like Web Tribe (Jambo Pay), National Bank (Noveta), and KRA (Nairobi Pay).

This proactive approach extends to reaching out to numerous other witnesses to shed light on the pressing issues surrounding revenue collection.

“We are deeply concerned to discover that the revenue systems have remained unaudited since their automation in 2013, hindering an accurate determination of the actual revenue collected. Furthermore, the ownership and administration details of Nairobi Pay are shrouded in mystery, intensifying our concerns,” expressed Imwatok.

Highlighting the absence of a documented agreement between the Nairobi City County Government and Nairobi Pay, the Ward representatives underscored claims suggesting unidentified officials from the National Government may be in control of the revenue system.

Assuring the citizens of Nairobi, Minority leader Antony Kiragu affirmed the committee’s unwavering commitment to unveiling the truth behind the challenges plaguing revenue collection in the city.

Kiragu also called upon Nairobians and Kenyans at large to patriotically share any information related to the matter, emphasizing the importance of witness cooperation with the committee’s invitations.

The MCAs issued a stern caution against any attempts to frustrate or interfere with the committee’s mandate. Additionally, they announced a Public Forum scheduled for the 13th and 14th of December 2023 at Charter Hall, inviting public input to address and overcome the obstacles presented by the revenue collection issues.