Ruto shuts down all pay bill numbers, retains one for government payments

By Peter Ochieng

President William Ruto has shut down all pay bill numbers associated with the government.

The Head of State retained a single number, which seeks to ensure that all payments for government services go direct to the treasury.

The retained number is 222 222.

"We must shut down the rest of the pay bill numbers and remain only with one to channel all the money to the government through Treasury," said Ruto.

He spoke on Friday, during the launch of Gava Mkononi, a mobile app version of the e-Citizen platform.

He said numerous pay bill numbers linked to various banks were confusing citizens, seeking services from public institutions.

His administration, Ruto said, was realigning financial management to ensure efficiency and shut down corruption avenues.

He urged Kenyans to only pay for government services through the 222 222 platform, for among other things, effective audit by office of the Auditor General.

"Mobile money pay bill numbers are a convenient and secure way for the government to collect payments from those seeking services. The 222 222 Pay Bill Number offers a cost-effective way to collect payments, as there are very small fees associated with it."

Some of the services Kenyans seek from government agencies on a daily basis are birth and death certificates, and certificate of good conduct.