Homa Bay County Government has launched a Cashless system of revenue collection to improve accountability of paid taxes in the county.
This comes after the expiry of a 22-day tax holiday that was declared by Governor Gladys Wanga to be enjoyed by the area residents.
The cashless plan is a step towards the realisation of the Governor’s promise of streamlining revenue mapping, collection and management as one of her priority tasks in the first 100 days in office.
Addressing the Revenue Collection officers from all eight Sub-Counties today at Kabunde Social Hall within Homa Bay Town, Wanga said that the new plan will help the county to meet their target of collecting Sh1 billion per financial year.
“Through Cashless Plan, I’m optimistic that we will be able to meet our target of collecting 1 billion shillings or even more every year,” Wanga said.
The Cashless Revenue Collection (CRS) has two methods dubbed “First –Convenient Accountable by dialing *603# and “Easy as 123” by using Paybill number – 0434343, involving no cash money.
Wanga added that the plan will not only assist in fighting corruption but will also help her administration to increase bursary funds for the benefit of needy children.
She assured the tax collectors of a reward if they deliver sterling performance but also said that the law will take its course against those who will be involved in corruption.
“I will reward our collectors who will perform well in their duties but equally deal with those who will be found engaging in corruption,” she said.
The Governor also warned the collectors against forgery of documents for employment purposes, stating that thorough verification will be conducted.
The county boss also stopped any revenue collection done by the Sub-County administrators and enforcement officers, saying that they should stick to their roles as indicated in the constitution.
“Liquor License will be under revenue. No more collection of tax will be done by both the sub-county administrators and enforcement officers to avoid corruption, “said the Governor.
She reiterated that the county needs an environment that is corruption free to embrace equity to all as far as revenue collection is concerned. “All collectors will have a name tag, coat, reflector and a cap for easy identification by the residents,” she said.
As other countries have been doing, Wanga said the county government will form a Revenue Board with a clear administration structure to focus on all revenues.
She said an efficient audit committee will be put in place while strengthening the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) department for technological efficiency.
By Brian Odhiambo and Langat
