NAIROBI, Kenya — Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced progress in improving access to government services, including expanded passport centres, online access to birth certificates, and strengthened digital platforms.
Murkomen said continuous engagement with departments that provide direct services to citizens is critical in improving policy oversight and ensuring efficient delivery of public services.
The CS made the remarks after holding a strategic consultative meeting with the leadership of the State Department for Immigration and Citizen Services, led by Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang, at Nyayo House.
The meeting reviewed progress on key commitments made during previous engagements and assessed ongoing reforms within the department.
More Passport Centres Planned
Murkomen said the department has continued decentralising passport issuance services to reduce the burden on citizens travelling long distances to access the services.
He announced plans to expand physical passport application and collection centres to Kilifi County, adding to other counties already offering decentralised services.
The expansion is expected to improve convenience for applicants and reduce congestion at major passport processing centres.
Birth Certificates Now Available Online
The CS also highlighted the introduction of online access for birth certificates, allowing Kenyans to download and print the documents digitally.
He said the move responds to concerns raised during the government’s public engagement forums, including Jukwaa la Usalama sessions, where citizens raised challenges accessing essential documents.
The digital process is aimed at reducing waiting times and improving access to critical identification documents.
Strengthening e-Citizen Services
Murkomen said additional reforms are being implemented to improve government service delivery through digital platforms.
The State Department for Immigration and Citizen Services is working to streamline access to services through eCitizen while improving efficiency and user experience.
He added that the department is also strengthening consular services to better support Kenyans living and working abroad.
“As we begin the new Financial Year, we remain committed to supporting reforms and innovations that enhance service delivery, improve citizen experience, and ensure government services are accessible, efficient, and responsive to the needs of all Kenyans,” Murkomen said.
