In a significant move aimed at improving access to immigration services in the western region of Kenya, Immigration Principal Secretary Julius Bitok has announced the official opening of a new immigration office in Bungoma. This strategic initiative is set to enhance service delivery for residents of Bungoma and the neighboring counties of Busia, Kakamega, and Vihiga.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, PS Julius Bitok emphasized the importance of decentralizing immigration services to bring them closer to the people. He highlighted that the new Bungoma office will play a crucial role in easing the burden on the main immigration centers in Nairobi and other major cities, reducing the time and cost associated with obtaining essential travel documents.
“The opening of the Bungoma immigration office is a testament to our commitment to improving public service delivery. By decentralizing these services, we are ensuring that citizens in the western region have better access to vital immigration services without the need to travel long distances,” Bitok stated.
The new office is equipped to handle a range of services, including the issuance and renewal of passports, processing of work permits, and providing necessary support for both Kenyan citizens and foreign nationals residing in the region. This development is expected to significantly reduce the backlog and waiting times that have previously plagued immigration offices in more congested areas.
Local leaders and residents have warmly welcomed the opening of the Bungoma immigration office. Governor Kenneth Lusaka of Bungoma County expressed his gratitude to the national government for addressing the long-standing need for a regional immigration hub. “This office will not only serve Bungoma but also our neighboring counties, fostering regional integration and facilitating easier movement for our people,” Governor Lusaka noted.
Residents of Busia, Kakamega, and Vihiga counties also stand to benefit greatly from the new facility. The closer proximity of immigration services is anticipated to encourage more people to apply for passports and other necessary documentation, thus promoting greater mobility and economic opportunities within the region and beyond.
In addition to enhancing service delivery, the Bungoma immigration office is expected to create job opportunities for local residents, contributing to the region’s economic growth. The office will also facilitate better coordination with local authorities and stakeholders to address any emerging immigration issues promptly and effectively.
As the new immigration office begins operations, PS Julius Bitok assured the public of the government’s ongoing efforts to further decentralize services across the country. Plans are underway to open additional offices in other underserved regions to ensure that all Kenyans have equal access to essential public services.
The launch of the Bungoma immigration office marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s journey towards more efficient and accessible public service delivery. It reflects the government’s dedication to improving the lives of its citizens by bringing services closer to the people and fostering regional development.
For residents of Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, and Vihiga, the new immigration office is a beacon of progress, promising better access to services and a brighter future for the entire western region of Kenya.
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