In a groundbreaking move set to redefine citizen identification in Kenya, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced on Friday, February 21, 2025, the government’s ambitious plan to eliminate the traditional process of applying for national identification cards.
This initiative aims to streamline citizen registration and ensure that every Kenyan is seamlessly integrated into the national database from birth.
Speaking after a high-level security meeting, CS Murkomen unveiled the forthcoming implementation of a cutting-edge system designed to register individuals at birth.
Under this new framework, citizens will automatically receive their national ID upon reaching the age of 18, effectively removing the need for a separate application process.
This approach not only simplifies the acquisition of identification documents but also aligns with the government’s broader objective of establishing a uniform and efficient identification system for all Kenyans.
“We are going to leverage technology to ensure that we have a record of every citizen from birth,” Murkomen stated. “This question of even applying for ID will become a thing of the past. We will capture your data in such a way that when you are 18, you just get your ID automatically. You do not have to go through a process of application.”
This transformative plan is poised to address longstanding challenges associated with the current ID application process, which has often been criticized for its bureaucratic hurdles and delays. By integrating citizen data from birth, the government aims to create a more reliable and accessible system, ensuring that all individuals have timely access to essential services that require official identification.
In tandem with this announcement, President William Ruto recently abolished the additional vetting procedures for ID applicants in border counties—a practice that had been deemed discriminatory.
Previously, residents from regions such as Tana River, Mandera, Garissa, Wajir, Isiolo, and Marsabit faced rigorous scrutiny, which often led to delays and denials of identification documents. The President’s directive emphasizes equal treatment for all citizens, irrespective of their geographic location.
Murkomen echoed the President’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of balancing national security with the rights of citizens. He assured that while the vetting process is being eliminated, robust measures will remain in place to verify the legitimacy of individuals receiving IDs.
“We are not going to abdicate our responsibility in making sure that there is safety and security in our country and that the right people are getting the IDs,” he affirmed.
This initiative signifies a monumental shift towards inclusivity and efficiency in Kenya’s identification system. By harnessing advanced technology and adopting a proactive approach to citizen registration, the government is poised to enhance service delivery and uphold the rights of all Kenyans.
As this new system rolls out, citizens can anticipate a more streamlined and equitable process, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s administrative evolution.
