Digital Transformation of Kenya's Procurement Systems: Evaluating the Implementation and Effectiveness of the E-Procurement Platform IFMIS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53819/81018102t2483Abstract
This article evaluated the digital transformation of Kenya’s public procurement systems through the implementation of the Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS). The study was conducted through a descriptive desktop review, relying on government reports, academic literature, and policy documents to assess the system’s rollout, effectiveness, and challenges. Findings showed that IFMIS contributed to improved transparency, reduced procurement cycle times, and enhanced auditability in several government agencies. However, issues such as limited user training, inconsistent system usage across counties, and technical failures hindered its full potential. The analysis further revealed that while the platform improved access to procurement information and planning tools, it fell short in achieving uniform efficiency and user satisfaction. Comparatively, Kenya’s IFMIS adoption was ahead of many African peers but still lagged behind best practices observed in countries like Rwanda and South Korea. The study concluded that IFMIS had partially succeeded in transforming Kenya’s procurement landscape and recommended greater investment in ICT infrastructure, continuous user training, and stronger policy enforcement. The findings underscored the need for future research focusing on real-time system monitoring and comparative performance assessments across different counties and sectors.
Keywords: Digital Transformation, Procurement Systems & IFMIS
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