By Nyang’au Araka
On Tuesday (16/9/2025), Kenya joined the global community in marking International Identity Day, with national celebrations held in Homa Bay.
For Kenyans, the national identity card is not just a formality but a vital document that unlocks access to rights, services, and opportunities.
According to Kenyan law, every citizen is eligible for an ID upon reaching the age of 18.
Yet, for many, obtaining this crucial piece of identification remains a challenge.
The journey of Kenya’s identity system is deeply rooted in its history.
It began in 1919 with the colonial-era kipande, a metal plate worn around the neck that served as both identification and a tool of surveillance.
It was dehumanizing and symbolic of the oppressive colonial regime.
In 1947, the passbook replaced the kipande, offering slightly more dignity but still functioning primarily as a means of control.
It wasn’t until the 1980s that Kenya introduced the first-generation national identity card, a significant step toward recognizing and empowering its citizens.
Despite this progress, access to identity documentation has remained uneven.
Many Kenyans, especially those in remote areas, have had to travel long distances to reach registration offices.
Others face delays due to understaffed facilities, lack of awareness, or bureaucratic inefficiencies.
For something so essential, the process has often felt frustrating and exclusionary.
In recent years, however, the government has made notable efforts to improve the system.
The rollout of Huduma Centres across the country has brought services closer to the people.
These centres offer a one-stop shop for various government services, including ID registration and replacement, significantly reducing the burden on citizens.
Another forward-thinking initiative has been the registration of students for IDs during their fourth year of high school.
This ensures that young Kenyans are documented early, easing their transition into adulthood and enabling them to participate fully in civic life.
Still, the system is far from perfect.
Some Huduma Centres remain understaffed, and digital infrastructure is lacking in certain regions.
Coordination between agencies can be slow, and citizens often face long wait times.
The journey toward a truly inclusive and efficient identity system continues.
Looking ahead, Kenya has an opportunity to leap into the future with a modern, integrated identity solution.
Imagine a single smart card that consolidates multiple functions: national ID, driver’s license, Social Health Authority (SHA) membership, voter registration, and even medical information like blood group.
Such a card would simplify life for millions, reducing the need to carry multiple documents and streamlining access to services.
With biometric authentication and encrypted data, it could also enhance security and reduce fraud.
Complementing this card could be a mobile application that allows citizens to update personal details, report lost cards, or schedule appointments—all from their phones.
For those without smartphones, an SMS-based system could ensure inclusivity.
This kind of innovation would not only modernize the identity system but also reinforce the principle that every Kenyan deserves to be seen, counted, and served.
Identity is a declaration of belonging.
As the country continues to digitize and decentralize its services, the next chapter must be one of bold innovation and inclusive design.
-Mr. Araka is a member of the Kisii Press Club