NAIVASHA, Kenya – The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has launched a staff training programme in Naivasha to prepare for the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The programme, led by IEBC chairperson Erastus Ethekon, is designed to equip field staff with the skills and knowledge required to manage voter registration in line with the Commission’s constitutional mandate under Article 88(4) of the 2010 Constitution.
“You are the face of the Commission. How you serve, communicate and carry yourselves defines what Kenyans think of the IEBC,” Ethekon told participants, stressing that staff conduct directly shapes public perception of the electoral body.
The Commission said the exercise is essential in ensuring every eligible citizen—including newly of-age youth voters—has the opportunity to participate in shaping the country’s democratic future.
The CVR process will also accommodate citizens who have not yet registered, as well as those seeking to update or transfer their voter details.
In early September, Ethekon outlined several preparatory measures to guarantee credibility and inclusivity of the registration process. These include:
- Mapping registration centres to confirm accessibility.
- Engaging stakeholders at the constituency level to raise awareness.
- Collecting geospatial data for effective planning.
- Configuring and testing Kenya Integrated Election Management System (KIEMS) kits.
- Dispatching registration materials in good time.
- Conducting a Data Protection Impact Assessment to ensure legal compliance.
Ethekon noted that registration services are currently available at all IEBC constituency offices except in areas with ongoing by-elections.
“Eligible Kenyans may register at any IEBC Constituency Office, except in areas currently with by-elections. Services available include new voter registration, transfer of voter registration to a new location, correction or update of voter details, and inspection of voter registration status,” he said.
The IEBC emphasised that the Naivasha training marks a critical step in building public confidence and laying the foundation for a transparent and inclusive voter registration exercise.