The use of E-procurement by county governments has landed the country into a Sh31 billion debt.
This, ironically, is despite the fact that the system was designed to eradicate corruption and ensure cost effective transactions by counties.
The system -Integrated Financial Management Information System(IFMIS)- is an automated system that enhances efficiency in planning budgeting, procurement, expenditure management and reporting in the National and County Governments in Kenya.
It, however, has so far proved to bring more harm than good, as many of the county government officials lack adequate knowledge on how to use the system.
This is according to Council of Governors Finance chairman Wycliffe Oparanya who revealed that it took three months for the cumulative debt to accrue.
Oparanya was speaking yesterday, during the National Treasury training of county executive at the Kenya School of Monetary Studies.
He further pointed out other inhibiting factors including the system's frequent break downs, poor internet connection and inadequate staff.
In response to the situation, National Treasury Principal Secretary Kamau Thugge said the ministry has organized a two-month extensive training and on-site support for county officials.
Plans to send the system's support teams to counties are also underway.
