Nairobi, 17th October 2024
A pivotal meeting, chaired by Dr. John Ntoiti, County Director, Revenue Administration, and Ag. CEO, Nairobi Revenue Authority (NRA), was held at the CBK Pension Towers. The session brought together heads of revenue streams and sub-county finance officers to scrutinize the revenue streams report, discuss strategies for promoting collaboration, and optimizing revenue collection across Nairobi’s sub-counties.
Dr. Ntoiti commended heads of revenue streams for parking, planning, and inspection for their revenue growth, describing their performance as a model for others to follow. He emphasized the need for Sub County Finance officers to take proactive responsibility in their respective sub-counties, particularly in identifying and addressing challenges like impersonation by unauthorized individuals posing as revenue officers.
“H.E the Governor gave very clear instructions on the formation of multi-sectoral approach. The only way to counter check compliance and enforcement in the sub counties is through the multisectoral teams which is chaired by the Sub County Administrators and deputized by Sub County finance officers. We are one team under the Treasury, and I urge you to remain vigilant in your areas, in your revenue streams as well and work very closely with relevant authorities when needed,” Dr. Ntoiti stressed.
The meeting also explored the setting up of tents across wards and sub-counties to boost revenue collection efforts. Dr. Ntoiti highlighted the importance of citizen engagement in ensuring compliance. “Citizen engagement is crucial. Setting up tents in strategic locations will provide easier access for the public to engage with us on county revenue matters, enhance compliance, and significantly boost our revenue collection,” he said. He underscored the need for a united front and a multi-sectoral approach to guarantee the success of the strategy, calling on officers to collaborate closely across sectors.
Assistant Director for Revenue Administration, Nixon Otieno echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of accountability among finance officers. “We must all take responsibility for our assigned duties. A multi-sectoral approach ensures that everyone is on the same page, working towards the common goal of boosting revenue. Accountability is key to achieving our targets. By working together and being responsible for our roles, we will strengthen Nairobi’s revenue streams,” he remarked.
Some of the concerns and issues raised by Sub- County finance officers were tabled as solutions were sought and discussed at length such as concerns regarding the need for digitizing fire certificates, as the reliance on physical copies has created inefficiencies in producing the certificates. They also called for the deployment of revenue officers to level four and five hospitals, which are significant but underutilized revenue sources, facilitation among others.
In attendance was Deputy Director, Revenue Administration, Veronica Kaleche, and officers from the revenue administration department.
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