In a significant leap towards digital transformation, the Kenyan government has allocated a staggering Ksh. 1 billion to implement Unique Personal Identifiers (UPIs), known as Maisha Numbers, for every citizen. This groundbreaking initiative, spearheaded by Immigration Principal Secretary Julius Bitok, promises to revolutionize how Kenyans interact with government services and their personal identification.
Under this new system, UPI will be issued to all Kenyan citizens at birth, establishing a seamless and lifelong connection between individuals and their digital identities. The Maisha Number will be the official identifier at all educational levels and facilitate tax payments through the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA). In a unique twist, it will double as the death certificate number upon an individual’s demise, streamlining administrative processes during difficult times.
Bitok, speaking after a crucial meeting with the National Digital Identity Technical Committee, emphasized that once citizens reach the age of 18, they will receive a Maisha Card, marking the gradual transition from the existing generation of IDs to digitally accessible identifiers. This transition aims to simplify the verification of clients and minimize identity fraud, forgeries, and other forms of misrepresentation, ensuring the utmost security in digital transactions and government services.
In contrast to the previous Huduma Namba initiative, which faced numerous legal and implementation challenges, the Maisha Card will not necessitate fresh registrations or the collection of personal biometrics. Instead, this upgraded card will be introduced in phases, essentially an evolution of the current 2nd generation ID. First-time ID applicants, those seeking duplicate cards, and those replacing lost IDs will be the initial beneficiaries of this remarkable advancement.
The Master Population Register will play a pivotal role in integrating existing databases, encompassing all individuals born in Kenya, transient populations, and refugees residing within the country. One noteworthy feature of the Maisha Card is the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ), which aligns with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. This MRZ will enable deciphering encrypted personal details, enhancing security and accuracy.
Furthermore, with essential roles in the digital ID’s implementation, the Technical Committee of Principal Secretaries has given the green light to Maisha Card’s adoption, heralding the end of the era of the 2nd generation ID.
In addition to the Maisha Card, the government has sanctioned issuing a unique identification number known as Maisha Namba, which will serve as a birth certificate number for newborns. This initiative extends to the digital realm by introducing a digital signature, making it possible to verify Kenyan identities using mobile phones and smart gadgets. A comprehensive master national population register will complete this transformative digital ecosystem.
The grand unveiling of the UPI system, set to take place on September 29th and graced by President William Ruto, marks a historic milestone in Kenya’s pursuit of a more streamlined, secure, and digitally connected future. The Maisha Number is not just a card; it’s the key to Kenya’s digital tomorrow.
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