Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kenyans.co.ke
Published on 2024-03-24 06:48:34
Kenyans seeking to obtain passports at the Nyayo House immigration offices in Kenya have been facing significant delays, sometimes extending up to six months. The government attributes these delays to various factors, including frequent breakdowns of printing machines and shortages of passport booklets.
Despite the challenges faced by applicants within the country, Kenyans living in the diaspora have reported a smoother process when applying for, renewing, or replacing passports. Interestingly, both groups utilize the same database and similar technical equipment for processing applications.
In a comprehensive investigation conducted across three continents, Kenyans.co.ke spoke to individuals residing abroad about their experiences with passport applications. A Kenyan residing in Arizona shared that replacing a Kenyan passport in the United States typically took about a month. The process involves submitting the application through eCitizen and then physically presenting the completed passport application to the Kenyan embassy in Washington DC.
Similarly, Kenyans living in Canada have reported a streamlined process for passport applications, with the High Commission in Ottawa stating that passports would be processed within four to six weeks after completing the application.
One Kenyan living in Rwanda expressed preference for dealing exclusively with the Kenyan High Commission in Kigali, citing efficient service. In contrast, the Embassy of Kenya in Paris, France temporarily suspended passport services, providing no detailed explanation for the decision.
On March 23, the State Department of Diaspora Affairs launched mobile consular services in Burgersfort, South Africa, addressing the documentation needs of Kenyan citizens in the region. The services included assistance with birth certificates, passports, and national ID card applications.
The disparity between the efficiency of passport services for Kenyans abroad compared to those within the country raises questions about the government’s capacity to meet the needs of its citizens, regardless of their location. Despite the challenges faced by applicants in Kenya, efforts are being made to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of passport services for all Kenyan citizens.
Overall, while delays and challenges persist in the passport application process within Kenya, Kenyans in the diaspora have reported a more seamless experience when applying for essential travel documents. The government’s commitment to addressing these issues and ensuring a smoother process for all applicants is crucial in enhancing the overall experience for those seeking to obtain or renew their passports.
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