Kenyans who wish to apply for their initial national identity cards can now do so at designated Huduma Centres throughout the nation, as part of a new government initiative aimed at simplifying and expediting ID registration services.
In a notice issued on November 7, Huduma Kenya revealed that numerous centres have commenced the processing of first-time ID applications.
This development brings this essential service closer to citizens who previously had to journey long distances to reach registration offices.
The centres providing this service include Baringo, Bomet, Busia, Elgeyo Marakwet, Embu, Eldoret, Garissa, Isiolo, Kajiado, Kakamega, Kericho, Kiambu, Kibra, Kilifi, Kirinyaga, Kisii, and Kisumu.
Additional locations include Kitale, Kitui, Kwale, Narok, Nyamira, Nyeri, Samburu, Siaya, Taita Taveta, Tana River, Vihiga, West Pokot, Lamu, Machakos, Makadara, Makueni, Meru, Migori, Mombasa, Murang’a, Nakuru, and Nandi.
Huduma Kenya emphasized that this initiative is part of ongoing efforts to improve access to vital government services and to ensure that every eligible Kenyan can conveniently and efficiently obtain a national ID.
Citizens are encouraged to visit the nearest participating Huduma Centre with the necessary documents to initiate their applications.
Previously, first-time applicants were required to visit the national registration bureau offices countrywide, usually located within county commissioner’s offices.
The national ID remains a vital document in the country, serving as proof of citizenship and an essential requirement for accessing most government and private services, including education, employment, healthcare, and financial transactions.
The integration of the service within Huduma Centres means applicants can now enjoy a one-stop experience. Some of the documents required before registration begins include a birth certificate and a parent’s or guardian’s ID, for verification and processing.
Huduma Centres are one-stop government service hubs established under the Huduma Kenya Programme, an initiative launched in 2013 to transform public service delivery by integrating multiple government services under one roof.
The centres are designed to offer citizens efficient, transparent, and customer-friendly access to essential services without the bureaucracy traditionally associated with government offices.
The Huduma model brings together over 60 government services, including issuance and replacement of national identity cards, NHIF and NSSF registration, driving license renewal, KRA PIN services, police clearance certificates, and passport applications, among others.
There are currently more than 50 Huduma Centres spread across the country, located in major towns and counties.
