Government officials attended a community sensitization meeting at Sengera grounds in Kisii County to address residents’ concerns about the Maisha Namba Project.
Led by Gucha Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Esther Kungu and Sub-County Registrar of Persons Caroline Andama, was intended to explain the vast benefits of the project, some residents expressed reservations about the proposed charges for acquiring the new identification system.
Moreover, officials reassured citizens that the Maisha Namba offers unmatched advantages, far outweighing the small costs involved. Additionally, The Maisha Namba Project, a key initiative of Kenya’s government, introduces a unique Personal Identification Number (PIN) for every Kenyan at birth.
This number will streamline access to essential services, including education, healthcare, and tax services. It will also replace various existing identification numbers, providing citizens with a secure and lifelong identity that will enhance service delivery and security.
While, addressing the residents, Andama emphasized that the Maisha Namba is not just an ordinary identification number but a critical step towards modernizing Kenya’s identity management system.
“Our current system is outdated and struggles to meet international standards. The Maisha Namba will allow Kenya to transition into the digital era, ensuring our citizens enjoy faster, more efficient, and secure services,” she said.
Government officials emphasized long-term benefits of the project, urging residents to view it as an investment in Kenya’s future.
“The small cost incurred to acquire the Maisha Namba is minimal compared to the convenience and security it will bring. This system will eliminate the need for multiple registrations and ensure that accessing government services is more seamless than ever before,” Kungu explained.
The Maisha Namba project will integrate advanced technologies, including biometric data, to secure citizens’ online and offline services, replacing second-generation IDs with secure third-generation cards, aligning Kenya with global standards.
In addition to convenience, the Maisha Namba will help eliminate duplication in government records, improve the management of social programs, and strengthen national security by offering a foolproof identification system. These long-term benefits, officials said, would more than justify the modest fee associated with the rollout of the new system.
“We understand the concerns raised by some citizens, but it’s important to recognize that the value of Maisha Namba goes far beyond its initial cost. This is a system that will serve you throughout your life, enhancing your access to services and ensuring your identity is protected,” Andama emphasized.
Lastly, Residents were also encouraged to consider the broader impact of this project, including its role in supporting Kenya’s compliance with international standards and positioning the country as a leader in digital identity management in East Africa.
By Misheba Alfred
