The Kenyan government has started a pilot scheme for the new digital identification cards.
First-time ID applicants will now be issued with the new cards, known as Maisha Card beginning November 1st, 2023.
About The New ID
The Maisha Card will feature a unique personal identifier (UPI) number known as Maisha Namba that will be the primary and lifelong registration and identification reference for its holders.
All newborns will also be issued with Maisha Namba to use in their birth certificates and subsequent registration for government services including school enrolment and health services. The same number will translate to their Maisha card number upon attainment of 18 years.
Under the proposed plan, the government will gradually phase out the 2nd generation IDs in favour of Maisha Card with the current ID number translating to Maisha Namba.
The Maisha Namba, Maisha Card, and Maisha Digital ID will be consolidated into a population register to be known as Maisha Integrated Database. This will negate vetting for issuance of Identity Cards.
What They’re Saying
“All Kenyans turning 18 years in whichever part of Kenya will be issued with a Maisha Card on a pilot basis. This way, we will establish whether there are any errors or issues before we do the penultimate launch.” Immigration and Citizen Services Permanent Secretary Prof Julius Bitok said.
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