5 Reasons Why ID Renewal Every 10 Years is Necessary

In a recent statement, Julius Bitok, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Immigration and Citizen Services, addressed the government’s decision to introduce the Maisha card, a digital identity card for Kenyan citizens. The statement came in response to several concerns raised by the public and civil society regarding the card’s implementation and features.

Key Concerns and Government Responses

10-Year Expiry Date for National ID Cards

One significant concern was the 10-year expiry date of the new National ID cards. Bitok explained that this requirement aligns with international standards for IDs with digital chips. He cited examples from countries like Uganda, Tanzania, Nigeria, Senegal, and France, which also require periodic renewal of such IDs. The renewal process for the Maisha card will not necessitate fresh biometric data but will require new passport-sized photos to account for changes in facial features over time.

Compliance with Best Practices

Bitok emphasized that the development of the Maisha ecosystem adheres to regional and international best practices. This includes the standardization of personal registration documents, in line with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) requirements for cross-border identification.

Enhanced Security Features

The Maisha cards are designed with enhanced security features to prevent forgery and tampering. This move aims to bolster the integrity and reliability of the National ID system, ensuring that personal identification is secure and trustworthy.

Digital and Consolidated Database

One of the notable features of the Maisha card is its digital capabilities. The card allows for the creation of a digital version of the National ID, which facilitates easier access and verification of identity. Additionally, the Maisha system will consolidate various databases into a master national register, eliminating the need for multiple personal registration records. This consolidation is expected to streamline government services and improve efficiency.

Modernization of National ID Printing

To address the current state of ID card printing, Bitok announced that the National Registration Bureau (NRB) has acquired a modern printer to enhance its capacity. The new printer can produce up to 30,000 National ID cards per day, significantly exceeding the average daily demand of 10,000 applications. This upgrade is part of the NRB’s commitment to ensuring that eligible Kenyans receive their National ID cards promptly, recognizing the ID card’s importance as a constitutional right and essential identification document.

Conclusion

The introduction of the Maisha card represents a significant step towards modernizing Kenya’s identification system. By aligning with international standards and incorporating advanced security features, the government aims to enhance the reliability and security of the National ID system. The modernization of the printing process further underscores the commitment to meeting the identification needs of all Kenyan citizens efficiently.