NAIROBI, Kenya – A section of lawmakers has raised concerns over the government’s directive requiring all public entities to adopt the electronic procurement (e-procurement) system, warning that legal ambiguities and poor internet connectivity could derail its implementation.
The e-Government Procurement (e-GP) platform, spearheaded by the National Treasury, is scheduled to become mandatory across ministries, departments, and agencies by July 1, 2025.
The directive also requires all suppliers to register on the platform in order to participate in government tenders.
While acknowledging the benefits of digitising procurement, Narok Senator Ledama Olekina, Kathiani MP Robert Mbui, and Nyeri Town MP Duncan Mathenge questioned whether the rollout is practical and legally sound.
MP Mbui argued that the platform may fall short of constitutional principles of fairness, transparency, and accessibility, particularly for communities with limited internet access.
Senator Olekina added that the national government may not have the authority to compel counties to adopt the system, warning that insufficient consultation could trigger legal challenges and strain devolved budgets.
Mathenge, meanwhile, questioned Kenya’s readiness for a fully digital procurement regime, pointing to shortcomings in previous government digitisation programmes.
The Treasury insists that the system is a critical reform to enhance accountability, reduce human interference in procurement, and improve efficiency in service delivery.
President William Ruto has also defended the rollout, declaring on August 31 that public procurement must be fully transparent.
“Any officials who are not ready to continue with e-procurement can as well leave. They will not stop us from fully adopting this system and ensuring our resources are used as expected,” the President said.
