The recent move by the Ministry of Interior’s Department of National Registration to clear the backlog of duplicate Identification Cards (IDs) and urge Kenyans to collect them at Huduma Centers is a significant step. However, the sharp rise in the replacement fee from Ksh100 to Ksh1,000 has sparked controversy. The government defends the hike, citing the need to cover costs related to the issuance and maintenance of IDs, but for many citizens, the new fee is seen as prohibitively high.
The replacement of an ID is often necessary after loss or theft, and it’s an essential document for accessing various government services. Therefore, this increased cost could leave many Kenyans in a tough spot, potentially discouraging them from getting a replacement. The backlash is understandable, especially in a time when the economy is struggling, and President William Ruto’s administration is actively seeking ways to boost government revenue, including through tax increases.
On the bright side, the clearance of the backlog is a positive development, particularly because delays had previously left many without access to essential services. The move to phase out current IDs in favor of new-generation cards, as pledged by Immigration PS Julius Bitok, also shows a forward-thinking approach toward improving the national identification system. However, the government’s ability to balance the need for better services with affordability remains a challenge.
This situation reflects the ongoing tension between government policy and public expectations, especially in regard to costs. It remains to be seen how the public will adjust to the new fee and how effectively the new generation cards will be rolled out. For now, Kenyans are urged to collect their cleared IDs and continue engaging with the system, hoping that further adjustments will consider the citizens’ financial situations.