This archive report was first published on 15 January 2020.
As a parent, you want the best for your child, and that includes ensuring their identity is secure and accurate. In Kenya, registering a child's birth is a fundamental right that guarantees their right to a name and nationality. However, changing a child's names after birth can be a complex process.
Published on January 15, 2020, by Eric Mukoya, this article provides guidance on how to change a child's names after birth. According to the Births and Deaths Registration Act, any registration of birth taken after six months is considered late. In such cases, submission of specific documents is required, including a county notification of birth, a certificate of the doctor or midwife who attended the birth, and an identify card or passport of the parent.
It's essential to note that there is no law governing the change of name from birth notification to a birth certificate. However, the registrar of birth has the discretion to require additional documents. The birth notification is an administrative document that assists the government in identifying the location and date of birth of the child, besides confirming the name of the mother.
Therefore, changing a child's names after birth requires the counsel of the registrar of birth. It's crucial to follow the correct procedure to avoid any complications or delays in the process.
