The Principal Secretary for Immigration and Citizen Services, Julius Bitok, has announced that Kenya is now equipped to print up to one million passports annually. This move is set to enhance efficiency in passport processing and support Kenyans seeking international opportunities.
Speaking during a church service at the Africa Inland Church Fellowship Annex in Eldoret, where he accompanied President William Ruto, PS Bitok emphasized the importance of acquiring a passport. He urged young Kenyans to apply for the crucial document to take advantage of foreign employment opportunities, as part of the government’s broader plan to address the country’s rising unemployment levels.
“We encourage the youth to apply for passports so they can explore international job markets. The government is committed to ensuring that Kenyans have the necessary documentation to seek opportunities abroad,” Bitok stated.
Despite the improved capacity to process passports, the PS revealed that over 70,000 passports remain uncollected. He urged applicants to pick up their documents, citing the inconvenience caused by the backlog.
The government has been taking steps to streamline passport issuance, with investments in new printing equipment and an increase in staff at immigration offices. These efforts have significantly reduced delays that previously plagued the system, ensuring that Kenyans can receive their passports in a timely manner.
The ability to print one million passports per year aligns with Kenya’s vision to empower its citizens in a globalized economy. Many Kenyans seek opportunities in countries such as Canada, the United States, the Middle East, and Europe, where skilled and semi-skilled labor is in demand.
In recent months, the government has signed agreements with various nations to facilitate labor migration, creating legal avenues for Kenyans to work abroad. With a more efficient passport processing system, potential workers can now take advantage of these opportunities without unnecessary bureaucratic delays.
PS Bitok’s announcement is a positive development, signaling the government’s commitment to improving immigration services and enhancing job opportunities for Kenyans beyond the country’s borders.
