The access to birth and death registration services could soon become easier for Kenyans across the country should a Bill introduced in Parliament to quicken the process is passed by MPs.
The Births and Deaths Registration (Amendment) Bill, 2024 seeks to improve access to birth and death registration services across Kenya by establishing at least one registration office in each constituency.
Currently, there are about 143 such offices, something that some people have argued is making it difficult for many Kenyans to obtain essential documents like birth certificates and death certificates.
The Bill sponsored by Gilgil MP Martha Wangari has a proposed amendment in line with Article 6(3) of the Constitution.
The said article guarantees every Kenyan the right to be registered as a citizen.
Wangari argues that by increasing the number of registration offices, the government will make it easier for citizens to exercise this right and access other important services that require proof of identity.
If enacted, Kenyans, particularly those living in rural areas and marginalized communities will reduce the time and effort required to obtain birth and death certificates.
The documents are currently essential for accessing education, healthcare, employment, and other social services.
The amendment is also expected to improve the accuracy and completeness of birth and death records, which are crucial for planning and development.
By having more registration offices, it will be easier to collect data on births and deaths, which can be used to inform policies and allocate resources effectively.
The proposed law has since been read for the first time in the National Assembly.
