Government Launches 'Usajili Mashinani' to Fast-Track ID Access in Underserved Counties

 

 The Ministry of Interior and National Administration has rolled out a new mobile registration programme dubbed Usajili Mashinani, aimed at accelerating the issuance of national identity cards in Kenya’s underserved regions.

The initiative, launched by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, targets 15 counties that have historically faced challenges in accessing civil registration services. The first phase of the programme runs from 13th to 25th October, covering Turkana, West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, and Baringo counties.

According to CS Murkomen, the mobile registration units deployed under Usajili Mashinani will enable residents in remote areas to apply for and receive their IDs within 3 to 7 days, a major improvement from the previous delays that often stretched into months.

“Identity is not just a piece of paper — it is the key to accessing education, healthcare, employment, and participating fully in our democracy. This programme is about inclusion and ensuring every Kenyan is visible and counted,” said Murkomen during the launch.

The mobile teams are equipped to handle new applications, replacements, and corrections on-site, significantly reducing the need for travel to distant registration centres.

The programme is part of a broader reform agenda by the government to make public services more accessible, especially for marginalized communities that have long been excluded due to geographical, infrastructural, or administrative barriers.

Local leaders and community members have welcomed the initiative, noting that lack of identity documents has hindered access to government services and opportunities for many young people in the region.