Kwale: Kwale County has launched a new digital platform portal designed to streamline the application and processing of business permits and citizen services. The online platform service dubbed ‘Kwale Electronic Development Application Permit System’ (KEDAPS) aims to enhance efficiency, transparency, and user experience in these areas.
According to Kenya News Agency, this new system through the Department of Environment, Natural Resources and Urban Planning in conjunction with the Finance and ICT Department, replaces the outdated manual process, offering a faster, more efficient, and transparent way for residents and investors to submit and track development proposals. Governor Fatuma Achani says the initiative is part of the devolved government’s ongoing reforms aimed at promoting digital transformation within its various agencies. Achani emphasized that the new initiative forms a key part of her administration’s ongoing reforms aimed at promoting transparency, enhancing operational efficiency, and significantly improving service delivery to the public.
‘The new digital system is designed to reduce delays and offer a more user-friendly experience,’ she stated. She added that the new platform is designed to streamline the application and processing of citizen- and business-related services, ensuring faster turnaround times and improved user experience. Achani has been at the forefront in ensuring digitization of services to align with the tech world, noting that the system will benefit the residents of the Coastal County at large.
The governor highlighted that the county government has undertaken several initiatives in the past to improve public service delivery through technology and digital innovation. She mentioned that through these digital initiatives, Kwale is pushing toward a more transparent, efficient, and citizen-centered public service model. ‘The introduction of this new system is a major step forward in the county’s digital transformation journey and is expected to benefit all stakeholders from individual landowners and small-scale developers to large investors and institutions,’ said Achani.
The reforms aim to leverage technology to enhance the efficiency and quality of regulatory services in Kwale, creating a business environment that fosters inclusive and sustainable transformation. Achani urged stakeholders, business people, and residents to embrace the innovation and seize the opportunities it presents to build a robust economy that is both safe and conducive for all.
Robert Nguma, the County senior ICT officer, also highlighted various benefits and simplicities from KEDAPS launching. ‘Through KEDAPS, users can now apply for development permits online from the comfort of their homes or offices, track the status of their applications in real time, and receive approvals electronically,’ he said. Nguma noted that this initiative by the county government of Kwale to digitalize the Development Application Permit System will greatly advantage the county by significantly reducing turnaround times and eliminating inconveniences applicants have historically faced.
Macharia Thang’wa, County’s Principal Physical Planner, remarked, ‘The level of transparency and efficiency of this digital system will help curb corruption, improve service delivery, and ensure better planning and compliance with zoning and environmental regulation.’ He added that the new system will significantly reduce processing times, minimize paperwork, and enhance transparency in land development approvals.
The launch of KEDAPS reflects Kwale County’s commitment to modern governance, digital innovation, and sustainable development. By simplifying procedures and removing unnecessary bottlenecks and middlemen, the county is creating a more enabling environment for economic growth and investment.