ISIOLO, Kenya — Thousands of residents in remote parts of Isiolo County are gaining access to essential government services following a mobile registration drive aimed at issuing national identity cards and birth certificates.
The exercise, which began on April 7 and concludes on April 17, 2026, has seen a surge in turnout in recent days, with more residents seeking documentation that is critical for accessing public services, financial systems, and civic participation.
Officials say the initiative is also expected to boost voter registration ahead of Kenya’s 2027 General Election by enabling more eligible citizens to obtain identification documents.
According to John Njuguna, the officer overseeing the exercise in Isiolo County, at least 6,864 people, largely young individuals who have recently turned 18, have been served during the first nine days of the programme.
However, he noted that the figure represents only 40 to 50 per cent of the targeted population.
Njuguna expressed optimism that turnout would increase on the final day of the exercise.
One of the key challenges cited during the rollout is the region’s nomadic lifestyle, where pastoralist communities frequently relocate in search of water and pasture.
Registration teams have been forced to follow these movements, often relying on local administrators to trace and mobilise residents.
Officials credited the National Government Administration Officers (NGAO), including chiefs and assistant chiefs, for driving awareness and encouraging participation across dispersed communities.
Authorities also pointed to recent administrative changes that have simplified the registration process. The removal of vetting requirements has allowed applicants to be verified by parents and local chiefs, significantly reducing bureaucratic barriers.
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At Chechelesi Chief’s office in Tuluroba location, hundreds of young people turned up seeking registration, highlighting the demand for identification in underserved areas.
Access to national identification remains a critical issue in marginalised regions of Kenya, where lack of documentation has historically excluded many from essential services, including healthcare, education, and financial inclusion.
Residents who participated in the exercise welcomed the outreach initiative, describing it as a significant step toward inclusion and empowerment.
The government has in recent years expanded mobile civil registration drives as part of broader efforts to improve national data systems, enhance service delivery, and strengthen democratic participation ahead of upcoming elections.
