The government has allocated Sh1 billion to roll out a new third-generation ID, the Maisha Card.
Julius Bitok, the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Immigration and Citizen Services, revealed this, emphasizing that these new IDs would distinguish themselves from the Huduma Namba, initiated by retired President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration.
Bitok explained that this initiative directly responds to President William Ruto’s directive to introduce a digital ID within 90 days. The Maisha Number, as it will be called, will serve as an all-encompassing identifier for Kenyan citizens, used for various purposes, including work and obtaining a Kenya Revenue Authority Personal Identification Number (KRA PIN).
“We have transitioned from Huduma Namba to Maisha Card. I want to point out that we will not return to Kenyans for biometrics because we will use the existing database,” Bitok assured.
The new Maisha Card will be similar to the Huduma Namba but with additional features designed to enhance service delivery and promote financial inclusion for all Kenyan citizens and residents. One key aspect is the Unique Personal Identifier (UPI), which will provide citizens with a reliable and easily verifiable digital identity.
The UPI will have multifaceted applications. It will serve as a school admission and index number for national examinations. Upon turning 18, it will become the individual’s ID number. Additionally, it can be used as the registration number for key services such as the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), National Social Security Fund (NSSF), and a driver’s license number.
Bitok further revealed that the National Digital Identity Technical Committee, tasked with creating a digital ID for the country, has approved the proposed National Digital Identifier, the Maisha Namba.
Notably, the previous government initiated and launched a similar project under retired President Uhuru Kenyatta but faced legal challenges related to data protection.
The official launch of the UPI system is scheduled for September 29, with President William Ruto expected to lead the event.
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