Kenyans seeking to apply for their first national identity cards can now do so at selected Huduma Centres across the country, in a new government drive to simplify and speed up ID registration services.
In a notice dated November 7, Huduma Kenya announced that several centres have begun offering first-time ID applications.
This now brings the vital service closer to citizens who previously had to travel long distances to registration offices.
The centres offering the service include Baringo, Bomet, Busia, Elgeyo Marakwet, Embu, Eldoret, Garissa, Isiolo, Kajiado, Kakamega, Kericho, Kiambu, Kibra, Kilifi, Kirinyaga, Kisii and Kisumu.
Others are Kitale, Kitui, Kwale, Narok, Nyamira, Nyeri, Samburu, Siaya, Taita Taveta, Tana River, Vihiga, West Pokot, Lamu, Machakos, Makadara, Makueni, Meru, Migori, Mombasa, Murang’a, Nakuru, and Nandi.
Huduma Kenya noted that the move is part of ongoing efforts to enhance access to essential government services and ensure that every eligible Kenyan obtains a national ID conveniently and efficiently.
Citizens are encouraged to visit the nearest participating Huduma Centre with the necessary documents to initiate their applications.
Previously, first-time applicants were required to visit the national registration bureau offices countrywide, usually located within county commissioner's offices.
The national ID remains a vital document in the country, serving as proof of citizenship and an essential requirement for accessing most government and private services, including education, employment, healthcare, and financial transactions.
The integration of the service within Huduma Centres means applicants can now enjoy a one-stop experience. Some of the documents required before registration begins include a birth certificate and a parent’s or guardian’s ID, for verification and processing.
Huduma Centres are one-stop government service hubs established under the Huduma Kenya Programme, an initiative launched in 2013 to transform public service delivery by integrating multiple government services under one roof.
The centres are designed to offer citizens efficient, transparent, and customer-friendly access to essential services without the bureaucracy traditionally associated with government offices.
The Huduma model brings together over 60 government services, including issuance and replacement of national identity cards, NHIF and NSSF registration, driving license renewal, KRA PIN services, police clearance certificates, and passport applications, among others.
There are currently more than 50 Huduma Centres spread across the country, located in major towns and counties.
The programme operates under the Ministry of Public Service, Performance, and Delivery Management, and has earned regional recognition for its innovation in public service delivery.
Huduma Kenya has been instrumental in promoting government efficiency, reducing turnaround times for essential services, and increasing citizen satisfaction.
