Karura Forest has adopted a new payment model effective Friday, August 29, 2025, in line with the Government of Kenya’s directive to streamline public service payments on a centralised platform.
In a notice issued on Thursday, August 28, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) announced that all payments for gate entry, parking, and related services will now be made exclusively through the official eCitizen platform using Paybill number 222222.
“Karura Forest embraces the e-citizen payment method. Kenya Forest Service wishes to inform all visitors that all payments for gate entry, parking, and related services in Karura Forest, including the Sigiria block, will be made exclusively through the official e-Citizen platform effective Friday, 29th August 2025,” said KFS.
Enhancing Transparency and Efficiency
According to the KFS, the move aims to promote transparency, security, and efficiency in public service delivery.
It further stated that the change is part of a broader government initiative to close non-designated payment platforms and provide a more convenient experience for the public.
“This transition is part of a nationwide initiative to improve transparency, security, and efficiency in public service delivery while making your experience more convenient,” the notice added.
The management encouraged visitors to utilise the eCitizen platform for all payments to ensure seamless access to services.
Services Continue as Usual
Despite the new model, Kenya Forest assured the public that all its services and activities remain unchanged.
The collaboration between forest management and the Community Forest Association (CFA) will continue uninterrupted.
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“All other activities and services in Karura Forest will continue as usual, and our collaboration with the Community Forest Association remains unchanged,” the notice stated.
The management also invited visitors to continue enjoying the forest’s facilities, while emphasising the importance of feedback in improving delivery service.
Government to establish recovery site for eCitizen after cited irregularities
This follows the government’s announcement of plans to establish a disaster recovery site for the eCitizen digital payment platform, aimed at protecting public funds and ensuring service continuity.
Principal Secretary for Immigration and Citizen Services, Belio Kipsang, stated that the project is part of ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening digital governance and protecting the platform from disruptions, fraud, or cyber threats.
Also Read: Govt Moves to Establish Backup System for eCitizen After Previous Irregularities
Speaking on Friday, August 15, 2025, during a briefing with the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security, the PS noted that the recovery site will provide a backup system to guarantee uninterrupted services even during emergencies.
“The government is committed to safeguarding public resources and ensuring the eCitizen platform is resilient against any eventuality,” said Kipsang.
He explained that the disaster recovery site will complement existing security safeguards, boost system reliability, and protect taxpayer money.
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