NAIROBI, Kenya
Local authorities are set to implement an ambitious technology system that will see them speed service delivery. The Local Authority Integrated Financial Operations Management System promises more transparent operations.
The new computer system will be integrated with Geographic Information System (GIS) and will allow users to manage and analyse large volumes of data. Local authorities can use it for planning, revenue generation, information, decision-making and projection. The critical aspect of the GIS is the opportunity to store, retrieve, and communicate information effectively in real time.
Mr Rop Kiplagat, the Managing Director of Computing Development Strategies, the firm implementing it, says the technology will ensure local councils use their resources in a cost-effective manner. County governments must adopt modern technology to lower operational costs and improve on service delivery. With savings made, more resources will be allocated to service delivery,” he said.
Since its installation in 2006 as a pilot project, the Local Authority Integrated Financial Operations Management System has significantly transformed the financial management system in councils. It has injected accountability and transparency in council finances with strict budget formulation and vote spending. To date, over 100 councils have installed the new system.
Mr Kiplagat says the challenge ahead is resource constraints, as only 15 per cent of total Gross Domestic Product will be allocated to the County Governments. This means resource envelope will be competing for allocation with other projects in the Council. “The question is how do we make harness ICT and make it work for County Governments? What is the success of the current ICT infrastructure and services in place currently?” said Mr Kiplagat.
Experts say ICT providers must provide real solutions that work at the county level. The solutions, they say, must be citizen-centered and readily available in tools and services they identify with.
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