Members of the Kirinyaga County Assembly unanimously passed a motion paving the way for the automation of all building plans in the County.
The Kenya National Housing Policy (2004) recommends for development of safe and decent housing in Kenya and the use of appropriate building materials.
Through the committee on Lands, Physical Planning and Urban Development which is chaired by Tebere Ward MCA Peter Karinga, members noted that the move will fasten the approval process while also reducing corruption which has been rampant in various parts of the Country in the recent past.
The automation system in Kirinyaga will not only improve efficiency and profile buildings, but it will also act as a central repository for data concerning construction and buildings in the county.
“Kenya has witnessed the collapse of buildings in recent years as seen in the year 2016 in Huruma where 52 people lost their lives because of unregulated building procedures. Once the approval process is automated, it will be easier to identify officers’ concerns because there will be better oversight,” Karinga said.
Members said that the planned automation of building plans will make it easier for end consumers because it will save them time and money since the process will be online.
“The motion could not have come at a better time because digitization will reduce time wastage while also tracking the level of approval- this will reduce bureaucracy and corruption” Geoffrey Gakuru, Kiini Ward MCA.
Nominated Member Jane Mugo, said that digitization will bring more revenue because the system will alleviate corruption as well as encourage better planning reducing instances of mushrooming uncontrolled houses and industries.
The mover, Peter Karinga, thanked members for passing the motion noting that cases of unprofessional conduct in the building industry will be a thing of the past. He promised to work with the Department of Finance and Planning so that funds can be made available for the project in the 2024/25 financial year.
By Mutai Kipngetich
