The usage of a progessive electronic payment system for the Social Welfare Department will reduce its overhead costs.

This comes after cabinet today approved the implementation of the system for the Family Assistance Scheme.

Social Welfare Minister Doctor Jiko Luveni said an analysis taken by the department shows that the current voucher book system was inefficient and costly.

She said over the years the department has committed a substantial amount of time and resources in the administering of the Family Assistance Program through the Voucher Book system.

She said the Social Welfare Department will initiate a competitive process to solicit proposals from financial and non financial service providers for more progressive and efficient payment systems or combination of systems.