Gov't launches mobile ID registration drive to reach 1 million youth

The nationwide campaign, unveiled by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen in Nakuru on Wednesday, aims to streamline the identification process by eliminating bureaucratic barriers and adopting a fully digital system.

The initiative, according to Murkomen, will decentralize ID registration through mobile units that will reach sub-counties and even local levels to ensure accessibility. The government has also abolished the vetting committees that previously subjected border communities to lengthy scrutiny, a move aimed at fostering inclusivity in the registration process.

"From here, we will go to sub-counties and even locations to ensure Kenyans get this service with minimal inconvenience. We will also ensure IDs are issued within 10 days, unlike before when applicants waited for up to a year," said CS Murkomen.

The government is also rolling out a fully digital ID registration system. Live enrollment kits will be deployed across all sub-counties to facilitate real-time registration and processing.

Additionally, a post-issuance ID tracking system will be introduced, allowing applicants to monitor their application status via SMS alerts and online platforms, eliminating uncertainty and long waiting times.

Plans are also underway for the launch of a National Digital Identity Management System, which will introduce virtual IDs and digital wallets. These innovations will allow citizens to securely store and access their identification documents on smartphones, making interactions with government services and financial institutions more seamless.

Beyond the removal of the Ksh.300 ID application fee, the government has also waived the Ksh.500 charge for birth certificate verification, which was previously required before ID and passport applications. CS Murkomen emphasized that authentication of personal documents is the responsibility of the government and should be a free service.

"The government has abolished the Ksh 500 fee that was previously charged to verify the validity of identification documents. This service will now be free of charge," he stated.

Recognizing the need to support Kenyans living abroad, the government plans to expand ID registration services to the diaspora. Through partnerships with the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Kenyans outside the country will soon have easier access to ID enrollment services.