The Court of Appeal will on Tuesday, February 6 deliver a ruling that holds the fate of many Kenyans — especially the youth — who have unsuccessfully applied for identification documents.
The High Court on December 5, 2023 put brakes on the government’s plan to introduce new digital identity cards, popularly known as Maisha Namba.
Before this ruling the government, through the State Department for Immigration and Citizen Services, had everything set for the rolling out of the Maisha Card.
The department had communicated to Kenyans, indicating that it will cease the issuance of 2nd generation IDs after September 30, 2023, after the successful configuration of the systems to accommodate Maisha Card (3rd generation IDs).
High Court decision
The court stopped the introduction of Maisha Namba after Katiba Institute challenged the process, arguing that there was no legal basis for the rollout.
The lobby group also argued that their was no data protection impact assessment, neither was there “meaningful” public participation before the rollout.
The ripple effects of the High Court ruling has seen National Youth Service (NYS) prospective servicemen and servicewomen not lacking the critical identification documents.
Those who have completed form four, as well as other youth, who have attained the age of 18 and desperately need IDs are still waiting for their documents, with no hope in sight.
Unique Personal Identifier (UPI) number
Maisha Card features a unique personal identifier (UPI) number known as Maisha Namba that will be the primary and lifelong registration and identification reference for its holders.
All new-borns will also be issued with Maisha Namba to use in their birth certificates and subsequent registration for government services including school enrolment and health services.
The same number will translate to their Maisha Card number upon attainment of 18 years.
