President William Ruto has emphasized the role of technology in ensuring that the Hustler Fund, a flagship initiative aimed at providing affordable credit to Kenyans, remains free from corruption. Speaking at the launch of Kenya’s 5th Open Government Partnership Action Plan in Nairobi, Ruto explained how a technology-driven approach has made the fund transparent, seamless, and accessible to millions of Kenyans.
Technology as the Shield Against Corruption
President Ruto underscored that the Hustler Fund is insulated from corruption primarily due to its reliance on technology. He highlighted that the fund’s operations are carried out on a digital platform, which eliminates the need for manual intervention or the involvement of committees at the grassroots level. This digital-first approach is key in minimizing opportunities for corruption, which is often rife in government-led initiatives that rely on human discretion.
“If we were giving out the Hustler Fund using committees from every location, it would be chaos,” Ruto remarked, pointing out that such a method would likely have led to mismanagement and corruption. Instead, the use of technology has streamlined the process, making it more efficient and transparent. This approach ensures that the funds reach the intended beneficiaries without interference or delays, bolstering public confidence in the initiative.
Investment in the Hustler Fund
Since its inception, the government has invested approximately Sh12 billion into the Hustler Fund. This significant investment is part of Ruto’s broader economic strategy to support small businesses and individuals who often lack access to traditional banking services. As of now, the Hustler Fund has reached over 22 million Kenyans, with around two million people borrowing from it daily. This widespread adoption highlights the fund’s success in meeting the needs of ordinary citizens.
President Ruto also cited the Hustler Fund as a prime example of how his administration is leveraging technology to deliver public services efficiently. By using digital platforms, the government is not only reducing costs but also enhancing the speed and reliability of service delivery.
Leveraging Technology Beyond the Hustler Fund
Beyond the Hustler Fund, President Ruto noted other ways in which the government is using technology to improve public service delivery. One notable example is the Means Testing Instrument, which is part of the new University Funding model. This tool is designed to assess the financial needs of students, ensuring that resources are allocated fairly and efficiently. While the model has faced some opposition from parents and students, university administrations have largely supported it, citing its potential to provide a more equitable funding system.
President Ruto acknowledged that while technology offers significant advantages, it also presents challenges that must be managed carefully. However, he maintained that the benefits of adopting technological solutions far outweigh the drawbacks. “Technology to Artificial Intelligence gives us great opportunities but also has a good measure of challenges,” he said.
The Future of Technology-Driven Governance
Ruto’s comments reflect a broader vision for Kenya’s future, where technology plays a central role in governance and public service delivery. By embracing digital solutions, the government aims to increase transparency, reduce corruption, and enhance the efficiency of public programs. This approach aligns with global trends, as more governments around the world turn to technology to solve complex challenges and meet the needs of their citizens.
The President’s emphasis on technology also signals a commitment to innovation and modernization within the public sector. As Kenya continues to develop its technological infrastructure, initiatives like the Hustler Fund will serve as benchmarks for other government projects aiming to leverage digital platforms for greater impact.
In conclusion, President Ruto’s focus on technology as a tool for corruption-free governance represents a significant shift in how public funds are managed and delivered in Kenya. By insulating the Hustler Fund from traditional pitfalls of mismanagement, the government is setting a new standard for transparency and accountability in public service delivery.
