Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daily Nation
Published on 2024-02-06 21:00:00
The national identity card is an essential document for any Kenyan who has reached the age of 18, serving as proof of citizenship and entitling the holder to the rights and privileges afforded to every citizen under the Constitution. Article 12 (1) (b) of the Constitution guarantees every Kenyan the right to a registration/identification document, including a passport and a National Identity Card (ID). However, the process of obtaining or replacing a lost national identity card has become a daunting task due to various logistical challenges and bureaucratic obstacles.
Issues such as breakdowns of printing machines, shortages of printing materials, and rigorous vetting procedures have led to a backlog in the issuance of national identity cards. As a result, nearly 500,000 students who lack IDs are facing difficulties in registering for mobile phone SIM cards, opening bank accounts, or applying for university and tertiary college loans from the Higher Education Loans Board (Helb).
A survey conducted by the Nation has shed light on the dysfunctional system that has been frustrating law-abiding Kenyans who require these documents to access opportunities both domestically and internationally. The survey has revealed that applications for new IDs have exceeded 600,000 in the past two-and-a-half months, with an additional 10,000 applications being received daily. Furthermore, approximately 5,000 Kenyans apply for replacements of lost IDs on a daily basis, while about 200,000 Kenyans seek to obtain new IDs every month.
The national ID crisis is not only affecting individuals’ access to essential services but is also impacting the recruitment processes of various government organizations, including the National Intelligence Service and the Kenya Defence Forces. Additionally, a national identity card is a prerequisite for obtaining a Personal Identification Number (PIN) from the Kenya Revenue Authority and applying for a passport. Furthermore, it is required for police and court records, making it a crucial document for a wide range of purposes.
In late 2020, the printing of third-generation ID cards was halted by a court order, further exacerbating the national IDs crisis. It is evident that the challenges surrounding the issuance of national identity cards are having far-reaching implications and need to be addressed urgently.
The situation calls for swift action to resolve the bureaucratic bottlenecks and corruption that have been impeding the efficient issuance of national identity cards. By addressing the logistical and operational challenges, the government can alleviate the burden on citizens and ensure that they are able to access essential services and opportunities without unnecessary obstacles.
Efforts to streamline the process of obtaining national identity cards will not only benefit individuals but also contribute to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of various government functions. It is imperative that the authorities prioritize the resolution of the national ID crisis to ensure that the rights and privileges of all Kenyan citizens are upheld.
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