Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has questioned the government’s preparedness to support athletes, students, musicians and other professionals, accusing it of continuing to operate without adequate databases for key sectors.
Sifuna said it was unacceptable that the government was still citing inadequate data in various sectors with only a year left before the end of its term.
His remarks came in response to what he described as continued explanations by the government that it lacks sufficient databases to properly account for people in different sectors.
“If there is only one year left before this government completes its term in office, it is still explaining that it does not have adequate databases in various sectors,” Sifuna said.
He asked whether the government had a clear plan to establish and maintain national databases that would provide accurate information on Kenyans working and studying in different fields.
“Does the government have a concrete plan to establish and maintain national databases for our athletes, students, male and female sportspeople, musicians and other professionals?” he asked.
Sifuna said reliable databases would allow the State to know the people working in these sectors and provide assistance when required.
He said the information would also enable the government to respond appropriately when people fall sick or require government assistance for other reasons.
The senator's remarks place the question of government data at the centre of service delivery, particularly for groups whose needs may vary depending on their profession, age or circumstances.
Sifuna also questioned whether the government was putting in place systems that could keep such information updated and accessible when needed.
His comments come as the government continues to roll out digital systems and databases across different sectors, including education, health and social protection.
The senator did not specify a particular government database that he wanted established, but his questions covered athletes, students, male and female sportspeople, musicians and other professionals.
He said having accurate information on these groups would help the government provide support at the right time and respond to their needs instead of waiting until a crisis occurs.
