Kenya’s efforts aimed ad simplifying and cutting the cost of doing business in the country, got a boost on Wednesday following the launch of a web-based register of all operative licences.

The launch of the electronic registry is a progress on policy to reform the business environment that saw over 315 licences eliminated and others simplified between 2006 and 2007.

The new development comes with a promise that within the next eight months, the system will be upgraded making it possible for applicants to inquire about a licence, apply and pay on-line.

“That is the ultimate objective,” Deputy Prime Minister and Finance minister Uhuru Kenyatta said during the launch on Wednesday.

Already, a Bill to entrench the reforms into a legal framework and ensure permanency has been tabled in Parliament and if passed, could be enacted by December this year.

High speed

Launch of the web-based system at businesslicense.go.ke, the government says, is part of its effort to generate content in preparation for the arrival of high speed internet connection through the undersea fibre optic cables and setting up of digital villages.

Part of reforms

Under the Digital Villages programme, Kenya is funding setting up of the centres in rural and remote towns where locals can go to access the internet in an effort to increase its penetration rate in the country.

The portal is a part of the reforms that started in 2005 and which earned Kenya a position among the list of top-10 reformers in the World Bank’s Doing Business Indicator last year.

The move is also aimed at curbing corruption by making available information on licence application processes and requirements while, at the same time, reducing personal contact between government officials and the public.

“It will also make sure that application forms are readily available on the net without the need to go to government offices,” said Mr Kenyatta.