Hamisi: A total of 1,508 birth certificates and 186 death certificates have been issued in Hamisi and Tiriki East sub-counties of Vihiga County during the current financial year, according to the Hamisi Sub-County Civil Registration Office.

According to Kenya News Agency, Hamisi Sub-County Civil Registrar Anne Opil stated during an interview at her office that between July 2025 and December 2025, her office successfully processed and issued the documents to residents of the two sub-counties. Opil highlighted that the figures indicate an increased uptake of civil registration services following the establishment of the Hamisi Civil Registration Office in July 2024.

Before the opening of the office, residents had to travel to Mbale town at the Vihiga County headquarters to register births and deaths and to collect certificates. In the 2024/2025 financial year, the office issued a total of 3,313 birth certificates and 340 death certificates, which reflects growing awareness among residents of the importance of civil documentation.

Opil urged residents to ensure timely registration of all births and deaths and to collect certificates promptly to avoid unnecessary delays and congestion at the office, especially during peak periods. She expressed concern that many parents neglect the responsibility of registering their children early and only rush to the office when birth certificates are urgently required for national exercises such as examination registration.

Opil noted, "Some parents tend to relax and ignore registration until February, when candidates are expected to register for examinations. That is when we experience overcrowding, yet the office operates throughout the year."

She also regretted that some parents fail to verify the accuracy of details on birth certificates at the time of collection. Errors in names or personal details, when detected late, lead to delays and sometimes additional charges during the correction process. Opil advised parents and guardians to provide correct and accurate details, including proper spelling of names, during registration and to confirm all information before leaving the office.

The registrar emphasised that timely registration of births and deaths is critical for planning, access to government services, and safeguarding the rights of children.