The government has postponed the official launch of the Maisha Namba and Digital ID which was to be presided over by President William Ruto.
In a statement, Immigration and Citizen Services Principal Secretary (PS) Prof Julius Bitok informed the public and all stakeholders that the decision was made due to unavoidable circumstances.
“A new date for the launch will be communicated in due course. Any inconvenience caused by the postponement is highly regretted,” said Prof Bitok.
However, the PS said the public participation and stakeholders’ engagement forums on the exercise that are ongoing across the country will continue.
Maisha Namba Announcement
The government through the Ministry of Interior and National Administration partnered with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to facilitate the implementation of Digital ID cards in Kenya.
Additionally, the government said the IDs will give Kenyans a secure and efficient way in verifying their identity for various purposes such as accessing government services, opening bank accounts, and traveling.
“The digital identity system will provide Kenyans with a secure and reliable way to verify their identity for a variety of purposes, including accessing government services, opening bank accounts, and traveling,” said Prof Bitok during the launch.
Further, Prof Bitok said it will also help to reduce fraud and corruption and improve efficiency in government services.
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Digital ID Card Deals with UN
UNDP resident Representative Anthony Ngororano said the partnership will be key to the implementation of the proposed Maisha Namba which will be the official name for the unique personal identifier (UPI)
“The signing of this MoU on Digital Identity with the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, will allow us to engage our technical operational assets as well as our convening capabilities at the service of Kenya,” said Ngororano.
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Digital IDs
In addition, the Immigration department said the system will also contain digital IDs, which will serve as a digital version of one national ID.
Below are some differences between digital IDs and the current IDs
- It is not compulsory to all Kenyans as opposed to the current IDs
- The Digital ID will have superior security and technology features
- It will have an optional Digital ID which will be available online and recognized as valid proof of identity.
- Moreover, it will give Kenyans a secure and efficient way in verifying their identity when accessing government services, opening bank accounts, and even when traveling.
President William Ruto with Data Commisioner Immaculate Kassait and ICT CS Eliud Owalo during the launch of Data Protection Registration System. PHOTO/Courtesy.
