Kenyans to Receive National ID Cards Free of Charge Following Ruto’s Directive

President William Ruto announced that national identification cards will now be issued free of charge to all Kenyans, scrapping previous fees for applications and renewals. This directive is aimed at ensuring equal access to ID cards for every citizen, with an emphasis on a fair and non-discriminatory process. The initiative reverses earlier fee increases and reflects a commitment to inclusivity in access to government services.

President William Ruto has announced that all Kenyans will now receive national identification cards (IDs) free of charge, lifting the previous requirement for fees associated with new applications and renewals. This decision was made during his recent visit to Ayany, Kibra, marking the conclusion of his four-day working tour in Nairobi County. The President has instructed all government registration agencies to ensure that this directive is fairly and non-discriminatorily implemented so that every eligible citizen can obtain an ID without incurring any costs.

Emphasizing the importance of equality in this initiative, President Ruto stated, “I want to announce here in Kibra today that national ID cards should be issued free of charge. Everyone should receive an ID card at no cost through a fair and non-discriminatory process for all Kenyans.” He further reiterated his commitment to ensuring that every Kenyan is entitled to an ID card without facing discrimination based on their background.

This recent change reverses a previous government decision that mandated a payment of Sh300 for new ID applications and Sh1,000 for renewals. Additionally, a gazette notice issued in November 2023 had increased fees significantly, raising the replacement charge for lost or damaged IDs from Sh100 to Sh1,000, which had drawn criticism from various leaders and civil rights groups concerned about accessibility for marginalized communities.

National IDs have been part of Kenya since 1979, initially provided free of charge to promote accessibility and security. Over the years, fees were introduced, complicating access for certain citizens. President Ruto’s directive signifies a notable policy shift that may restore the availability of free IDs for first-time applicants, aiming to tackle exclusion and facilitate access to essential government services for all citizens.

Individuals can apply for their national IDs at the National Registration Bureau or at Huduma Centres throughout the nation. The application process involves submitting personal details on a form, followed by fingerprinting and photograph capture, after which a waiting card is issued. Only individuals aged 18 and older are eligible to receive a national identification card.

In conclusion, President Ruto’s directive to eliminate fees for national identification cards signifies a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for all Kenyans. By ensuring that ID cards are issued free of charge, the initiative aims to address historical barriers that have hindered access, particularly for disadvantaged communities. This policy change may enhance citizens’ ability to access vital government services, reinforcing the government’s focus on equality and fairness in public administration.

Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke