The Kenyan government has introduced 24-hour working shifts aimed at expediting the issuance of Maisha Cards. This initiative, announced by Immigration Principal Secretary Julius Bitok, comes as the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government seeks to resolve the challenges that have plagued the production of these essential identification documents.
Addressing the Backlog
During a session with the National Assembly Committee on Education, Bitok revealed that approximately 1.8 million Maisha Cards have been issued thus far, with over one million already collected by applicants. However, a concerning backlog of around 600,000 cards remains unprocessed. The PS assured that the technical and legal challenges that previously hindered the production of these digital cards have been overcome, and the government is fully committed to resolving the outstanding issues.
Bitok emphasized the urgency of the situation, especially in light of how the delays have adversely affected students seeking loans and scholarships. “As of now, we have issued 1.8 million Maisha Cards, and over 1 million have been collected. However, 569,000 cards remain uncollected,” he stated, reiterating the government’s commitment to working around the clock to clear the backlog.
In response to concerns raised by the Education Committee, Bitok mentioned the adoption of additional machinery to enhance the production process. The introduction of a 24-hour operational shift signifies the government’s recognition of the critical role that these identity cards play in the lives of citizens, particularly students who require them for educational and financial support.
Urgency in Student Registration
The urgency of the situation was echoed by Committee Chair Julius Melly, who pointed out that universities have resorted to alternative methods, such as using the National Education Management Information System (NEMIS) numbers, to facilitate student registration. “As a Committee, we have intervened to ensure that university students can register and access financial support using NEMIS as they wait for IDs, but the problem persists. We need a solution,” Melly stated, highlighting the challenges faced by students who are unable to access their loans and scholarships due to the lack of Maisha Cards.
MP Dick Maungu from Luanda also raised pertinent questions regarding communication strategies for informing ID applicants about the status of their applications. “What channels of communication are available for students and citizens to follow up on delayed issuance of IDs or Maisha Cards?” he inquired, stressing the need for transparency and accountability in the process.
Bitok responded by assuring the Committee that efforts are being made to streamline communication and enhance public awareness regarding the issuance of the Maisha Cards. He mentioned that the vetting process for applicants from border counties, which had previously contributed to delays, has now been abolished. This change aims to make the application process more efficient and less burdensome for applicants.
Data Security Concerns
A notable concern raised during the Committee meeting was the security of the personal data embedded in the Maisha Cards. Committee member Rebecca Tonkei sought clarity on the safety measures in place to protect this sensitive information. Bitok reassured the Committee that the data is secure, stating, “The data is safe. Kenyans should not be worried about the safety of their personal information.” This assurance is crucial, as public confidence in the security of personal data is paramount, especially with the increasing prevalence of cyber threats.
School Registration Rollout
Another key focus of the meeting was the school registration rollout program, aimed at ensuring that all children receive their IDs before graduating from secondary school. The Committee expressed concern over the number of schools involved in this initiative and the effectiveness of its implementation. “Tell us about this school registration rollout programme. How many schools have you done?” the Committee pressed, emphasizing the importance of facilitating a smooth transition for students entering higher education.
In response, Bitok stated that the Ministry is prioritizing school registration, with a goal of enabling students to obtain their Maisha Cards prior to leaving secondary school. This initiative is designed to help students seamlessly access educational opportunities and financial support as they transition into universities.
Challenges of the Huduma Number Project
The Committee also sought updates on the Huduma Number project, which was originally intended to streamline national identification. Bitok revealed that the project had stalled due to a lack of proper anchoring within a government department. However, he noted that the equipment originally designated for the Huduma Number project is now being repurposed to support the issuance of Maisha Cards, effectively utilizing resources to address the immediate needs of citizens.
Costs Associated with Maisha Cards
The meeting concluded with discussions about the costs associated with obtaining a Maisha Card. New applicants are required to pay Kshs 300, while replacements for lost or damaged cards cost Kshs 1,000. These fees are crucial for sustaining the program and ensuring that the government can continue to process applications efficiently.
Conclusion: A Call for Expedited Action
The National Assembly Committee on Education has urged the Ministry of Interior to expedite the issuance of Maisha Cards, emphasizing the critical nature of these identification documents for students seeking access to higher education funding. Delays in processing these cards not only hinder students’ educational aspirations but also impact the broader objective of fostering a well-identified and informed citizenry.
As the government implements measures to address the backlog, the importance of effective communication, data security, and swift action cannot be overstated. Ensuring that every Kenyan has access to a Maisha Card is vital not only for individual empowerment but also for the country’s overall development and progress.
The commitment to a 24-hour operational shift reflects a proactive approach to solving the backlog and signals the government’s acknowledgment of the importance of identity documentation in modern society. As this initiative unfolds, it will be critical to monitor its effectiveness and ensure that all citizens can access their rights and opportunities without unnecessary delays.
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