Kamukunji's Kiambiu residents flock to free mobile ID registration ahead of voter listing
By 7:00 am, long queues—mostly of young people—had already formed at the registration point. Officials assured residents that the service was free, with no charges for either new applications or replacements.
Residents of Kiambiu informal settlement in Kamukunji Sub-County turned out in large numbers on Thursday for a mobile national identification card registration drive. The exercise catered to both first-time applicants and those replacing lost documents.
By 7:00 am, long queues—mostly of young people—had already formed at the registration point. Officials assured residents that the service was free, with no charges for either new applications or replacements.
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Speaking to The Eastleigh Voice, several youths stressed the importance of having an ID, particularly with the nationwide mass voter registration exercise set to begin later this month. They noted that the document would also help them secure jobs and open bank accounts.
Janet Awinja, a first-time applicant, expressed relief after finally managing to submit her application. She said she had made several unsuccessful attempts in the past.
Open bank account
“For a long time, I have tried to register for an ID without success. This card will help me in securing a job because it is a requirement everywhere. I also want to use it to open a bank account, which I cannot do without an ID,” she said.
Another applicant, Stela Mawiya, also welcomed the initiative. She said she was motivated by the chance to participate in the upcoming elections.
“I want to vote for the very first time. I am happy I will now be able to take part in the election. Apart from voting, the ID will also help me to apply for jobs,” she said.
Local leaders praised the high turnout and urged more residents to seize the opportunity and register for IDs. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)
Praised high turnout
Local leaders praised the high turnout and urged more residents to seize the opportunity.
Kiambiu Location Senior Chief Asman Namusia said the government brought the service closer to residents after numerous complaints from young people who struggled to access registration centres.
“This is a free exercise. We are not charging anything. It is a mobile registration exercise, and we are encouraging all residents of Kiambiu who do not have IDs to come and register,” he said.
He further reminded residents that mass voter registration will begin on September 29 at the sub-county offices and urged them not to miss out due to lack of an ID.
Kamukunji Sub-County Registrar Sammy Kyamana echoed the chief’s remarks, stressing that the government’s goal was to reach as many people as possible.
“We are targeting as many as possible. Everyone who comes will be registered. No one will be turned away,” he said.
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