Kilifi: The government has intensified efforts to fast-track the ongoing mass Identity Card (ID) registration exercise by engaging the National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs) across the country, in order to mobilize and support citizens in acquiring the crucial document. Speaking during a sensitization forum for local administrators in Kilifi county, Immigration and Citizen Services PS, Dr. Belio Kipsang, underscored the critical role the officials play in ensuring the success of government programmes.

According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Kipsang stated that ahead of the countrywide roll-out, the government is conducting mobile registration in 15 disadvantaged counties, whose ID registration rates remain below the national average. He noted that the First Phase had already been launched in Turkana, West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, and Baringo counties. ‘Today we are here to sensitize local chiefs in preparation for the mobile registration, which will be conducted in 15 counties, which lack adequate access to essential government services,’ he said.

The PS disclosed that the government had introduced a new Live Capture Mobile ID Registration System to enhance efficiency and accessibility, especially for citizens in remote and underserved areas. ‘We are using modern equipment called Live Capture Units that record photos, fingerprints and applicants’ information, which is then transmitted directly to the headquarters for verification and printing. This has made it possible to issue IDs within seven days,’ he said.

Kilifi North Deputy County Commissioner, Samuel Mutisya, revealed that the region had 14,000 uncollected IDs. He said NGAOs in the county had already been directed to ensure the documents are distributed to the respective areas to facilitate collection. ‘In Kilifi county, currently we have approximately 14,000 uncollected IDs, but we have put appropriate measures in place to ensure they are delivered to the rightful owners,’ said Mutisya.

The exercise will also see County Commissioners, Deputy County Commissioners, Assistant County Commissioners, Chiefs, and their Assistants trace and deliver the uncollected identification cards directly to the owners in a national drive.