The government’s digital gateway, eCitizen, has become a financial juggernaut, processing over Sh1 billion in revenue every single day. But behind the glossy interface lies a lucrative deal for three private companies that are pocketing over Sh3 million daily—or Sh1.1 billion annually—to keep the system running.

Immigration Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang defended the arrangement in a heated television interview, arguing that the cost is a drop in the ocean compared to the efficiency gains."We are handling 500,000 hits a day. That is half a million Kenyans who don't have to queue at offices," Kipsang said."To maintain a system of this magnitude requires specialized private sector support."

The Convenience Fee Debate

The breakdown reveals that three firms manage distinct aspects: technical support, the payment gateway (PesaFlow), and SMS feedback. Their cut comes primarily from the controversial Sh50 "convenience fee" charged on every transaction. Critics, including the Auditor General, have flagged this fee as lacking a clear legal framework, questioning why citizens must pay extra to access government services.

• Scale of Operations: With over 22,000 services now onboarded—from passports to park fees—eCitizen has centralized government revenue like never before. Kipsang noted that before the platform, daily collections were a paltry Sh60 million.
• Accountability Questions: Despite the success, questions linger about the transparency of the private partners. With billions flowing through their systems before hitting the Treasury, stakeholders are demanding a forensic audit of the "settlement accounts" to ensure every shilling is accounted for.