Govt to Issue IDs in Three Days Using Mobile Units in Marginalized Areas
A bold government initiative is set to revolutionize ID registration in marginalized regions. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced on Thursday, July 16, that the state is rolling out a game-changing solution — the Mobile Live Capture Unit — to reach citizens who’ve waited years for identity cards.
“I assessed the piloting of the Mobile Live Capture Unit, a portable battery-powered machine that captures data of ID applicants and relays it electronically for processing,” Murkomen said.
The machines are currently being tested in Turkana County, where over 400,000 adults still lack IDs. The new technology promises to fast-track the process.
“After testing, the machines will be deployed to marginalized counties,” the CS added.
“Applicants registered through this system will receive their ID cards in three days.”
Widening Access Where It’s Needed Most
Counties set to benefit include Garissa, Mandera, Kilifi, Wajir, Marsabit, Isiolo, Samburu, Lamu, Tana River, Narok, Kwale, and Taita Taveta. These areas often suffer from insecurity, poor infrastructure, or long distances to registration offices.
“Many pastoral communities in Kenya have difficulties accessing essential government services,” Murkomen emphasized.
In Kenya, an ID card is more than just a document — it’s the key to citizenship, employment, banking, and education. Without it, millions are trapped in a cycle of exclusion.
Counties Taking Charge: Mombasa’s Unique Approach
In a different but related effort, Mombasa County is developing a local ID system — the Mombasa Resident’s Card. This initiative aims to ease access to vital services like health and education.
“Each year, we spend over KES 130 million in hospital fee waivers to ensure no Mombasa resident is left behind,” Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff said during a public meeting on Thursday, July 10.
He added:
“To make this support more sustainable and targeted, we are proposing the Mombasa Resident’s Card — your key to discounted rates across County public services.”
According to the governor, the card will hold biometric data, birthplace, and residency details. It will be rolled out only after public approval.
A Step Toward Equity
For years, residents of marginalized areas have endured long treks, bureaucracy, and hopeless waiting. Now, with mobile technology and bold county action, they’re closer to dignity, identity, and opportunity.
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Govt to Issue IDs in Three Days Using Mobile Units in Marginalized Areas
