Kenyans applying for their first national identity cards (ID) can now do so at select Huduma Centres across the country, following a new government initiative aimed at simplifying and speeding up ID registration.
In a notice dated November 7, Huduma Kenya announced that several centres have officially begun processing first-time ID applications.
The move marks a major milestone in the government’s ongoing efforts to decentralize essential services and make them more accessible to citizens.
Previously, new applicants had to visit the National Registration Bureau offices, often located within county commissioners’ premises ; a process that was both time-consuming and inconvenient for many, especially those in remote areas.
The service is now available in huduma centres in Baringo, Bomet, Busia, Elgeyo Marakwet, Embu, Eldoret, Garissa, Isiolo, Kajiado, Kakamega, Kericho, Kiambu, Kibra, Kilifi, Kirinyaga, Kisii, and Kisumu.
Other centres in the list 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 said the integration of the service into its network is part of a broader plan to ensure every eligible Kenyan can obtain a national ID conveniently and efficiently.
Citizens are encouraged to visit their nearest participating Huduma Centre with the necessary documents including a birth certificate and a parent’s or guardian’s ID for verification and processing.
The national identity card remains one of Kenya’s most important documents, serving as proof of citizenship and a requirement for accessing key services such as education, employment, healthcare, banking, and government programmes.
Established in 2013, Huduma Centres were designed as one-stop shops for public service delivery, bringing together more than 60 government services under one roof.
There are now over 50 Huduma Centres spread across major towns and counties.
The programme, which operates under the Ministry of Public Service, Performance and Delivery Management, has earned regional recognition for transforming public service delivery through transparency, efficiency, and citizen-centered care.