Ruto’s Free ID Move Sparks Long Queues Across Huduma Centres
President Ruto has announced that the government will waive fees for replacing national IDs until after the 2027 Elections. The move aims to ensure that no Kenyan is excluded from registering as a voter.
The announcement has triggered long queues at Huduma Centres, as citizens take advantage of the free services to replace IDs. The initiative enables thousands of Kenyans, including young first-time voters and elderly villagers, to register and exercise their voting rights.
About Huduma Kenya
The Huduma Kenya program, launched by Ex-president Uhuru Kenyatta on 7th November 2013, is a flagship project under Vision 2030. Its main goal is to improve public service delivery, enabling citizens to access government services efficiently and conveniently.
Huduma Centre Operating Hours
Opening: 8:00 AM
Closing: 5:00 PM
Closed: Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays
Huduma Centre Locations
Kenya currently has 57 Huduma Centres across 47 counties, offering self-service, in-person, and assisted government services.
Services Offered at Huduma Centres
Issuance of initial Identity Card
Duplicate Identity Card
Birth Certificate issuance
Voter registration
Liquor licensing
Registration of Self-Help Groups and CBOs
Welfare Societies registration
Business name search and registration
Payment of rent and rates
Examination booking
Police abstract and clearance certificate issuance
Reporting corruption cases
NSSF member registration and statements
NSSF membership reactivation
Employer registration with NSSF and card replacement
Single business permit issuance
Receiving NSSF claims
NHIF member registration (formal and informal sector)
Impounding charges
PIN application and replacement
Clearance certificate and tax compliance certificate application
Advance tax for commercial vehicles
Logbook search
Online renewal of driver’s licenses
Student loan applications
Loan repayment statements
Receiving complaints on discrimination based on tribe or religion
The fee waiver initiative is not only a chance for Kenyans to replace their IDs, but also a reminder of the government’s commitment to inclusive voter registration and accessible public services.
