Government Calls on Kenyans to Collect Over 400,000 Unclaimed Digital ID Cards

NAIROBI, Kenya – The Kenyan government has issued an appeal to citizens who applied for the new digital identification cards, urging them to retrieve their processed documents from designated centers nationwide. Julius Bitok, Principal Secretary for Immigration and Citizen Services, emphasized during a press briefing on Wednesday that approximately 400,000 ready-to-use IDs remain uncollected.  

Speaking at Nyayo House in Nairobi, Bitok disclosed that three million digital IDs, part of the state’s “Maisha Card” initiative, have already been distributed since the program’s rollout. He stressed the need for applicants to promptly collect their documents, noting delays could hinder administrative efficiency.

 

Digital Innovation Streamlines Access

Bitok highlighted advancements in the third-generation IDs, which feature enhanced security measures such as encrypted biometric data and digitized holder photographs. Notably, the Maisha Card integrates with a digital platform, allowing citizens to store and access their IDs electronically via mobile devices. “Kenyans no longer need to carry physical cards; the digital version is secure and readily available,” he explained.

 

Introduced in 2023, the Maisha Card replaces the earlier Huduma Namba system, which faced criticism over privacy and technical shortcomings. The new system aims to serve as a lifelong identifier, streamlining access to government services while addressing past security gaps.

 

Public Concerns Over Cost and Implementation

Despite its benefits, the initiative has faced public pushback, particularly regarding increased application fees. Last December, Bitok defended the revised charges before Parliament, citing inflationary pressures and rising production costs. The state, he argued, spends significant resources on materials and technology to produce the advanced cards.

Officials remain optimistic about the program’s long-term impact, asserting that digital IDs will curb fraud and improve service delivery. However, some citizens continue to express skepticism, calling for greater transparency and affordability in the rollout process.

 

Authorities encourage applicants to check their local registration centers for uncollected IDs and utilize the digital platform for convenience. For updates, citizens are advised to visit the Immigration Department’s official channels.