The Kenyan government has introduced a new digital system, the Foreign Travel Management Information System (FOTMIS), requiring all state officers to obtain approval for foreign travel.
This system is designed to track, process, and manage travel requests from top officials, such as Principal Secretaries and other senior government representatives.
The launch of FOTMIS follows a directive from the previous year by Chief of Staff Felix Koskei, which suspended all non-essential travel for government officials and imposed restrictions on the size of delegations for official trips abroad.
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This initiative aligns with President William Ruto's administration's broader strategy to reduce public expenditure and address financial mismanagement concerns.
Despite the administration's commitment to combat corruption and minimize wastage, the new system responds to mounting criticism over the alleged misuse of public funds. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua emphasized that the system will ensure more prudent use of public resources, allowing only justified and necessary official travel.
Eliud Owalo, Deputy Chief of Staff, highlighted the system's ability to monitor the frequency, purpose, and cost of trips undertaken by public servants, providing insights into their impact on government operations.
In a July 2023 memo, Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei outlined strict new guidelines, capping overseas travel at 45 days per year, with a maximum of seven days per trip. Delegations for Cabinet Secretaries are now limited to four members, while other officials can travel with only three.
Travel is restricted to policy-related events, with a quarterly limit of 15 days. Personal assistants and security personnel are prohibited from joining these trips, ensuring that only essential technical staff accompany officials.
