The State Department for Public Investments and Assets Management has reaffirmed that the transition to the Electronic Government Procurement (e-GP) system is unstoppable, despite resistance from some quarters.
Principal Secretary Cyrell Wagunda said the government is committed to digitising its entire procurement chain, stressing that the new platform will soon become the only gateway for anyone seeking to supply goods or services to state entities.
“The National Treasury is digitalising its processes to restore order and integrity in the way government operates. Through e-GP, we want to clean up procurement, bring efficiency and end the loopholes that have been exploited for years,” Wagunda explained while addressing participants at a workshop in Nyeri.
Launched at the start of the 2025/2026 financial year, the e-GP system requires suppliers to register, submit bids and monitor tender progress exclusively online. The platform has been linked with KRA’s iTax, IFMIS, the Business Registration Service, and the Integrated Population Registration System to tighten oversight and curb fraud.
According to Wagunda, this digital shift is expected to save the country between Sh150 and Sh250 billion annually money that could be redirected to critical sectors such as education and health.
“This is not about punishment; it’s about transparency and accountability. With e-GP, we are cutting costs, eliminating corruption and ensuring Kenyans get value for money,” he said.
The rollout has not been without hurdles. The High Court temporarily halted exclusive reliance on e-GP, and Parliament rejected its adoption. However, Wagunda noted that the law does not stop the government from moving procurement online.
“Legally, both manual and electronic systems can run. But the government has chosen to go digital. If you want to do business with us, do it electronically. If not, you’re free to stay out,” the PS stated firmly.
So far, compliance is gathering pace. Nearly 90 percent of national departments and 20 other procurement entities are already on board. Counties such as Busia, Kakamega, Murang’a, Elgeyo Marakwet and Lamu have also published their procurement plans through the new system.
Wagunda spoke while closing a five-day training on IFMIS Asset and Inventory modules for counties in the Mt. Kenya region, part of a wider sensitisation programme that has so far covered 42 counties.
