This archive report was first published on 19 July 2019.
As of April 2, 2019, the Huduma Namba registration exercise was underway, with many Kenyans eager to acquire the unique identifier. The government had initially stated that registration was not compulsory, but it seemed that acquiring a Huduma Namba was a wise decision, as the government was planning to make it compulsory soon.
On July 19, 2019, the government announced plans to reopen the Huduma Namba registration exercise, giving those who had not registered a chance to do so.
According to the proposed Bill by Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i, the following services will be accessible without a Huduma Namba if the Bill is passed into law:
- Obtaining a passport
- Applying for a driving license
- Registering a mobile phone number
- Registering as a voter
- Paying taxes
- Transacting in the financial markets
- Opening a bank account
- Registering a company or public benefit organization
- Transferring or making dealings in land
- Registering for electricity connection
- Accessing universal health care services
- Benefiting from the government housing scheme
- Registering a marriage
- Enrolling in a public educational facility
- Accessing social protection services
- Registering or transferring a motor vehicle
- Any other specified public service
It appears that having a Huduma Namba will become a necessity for accessing various government services. If the Bill is passed, those without a Huduma Namba will face significant challenges in their daily lives.
