Kenyans Decry Processing Delays at Nyayo House

The Kenyan passport has become a source of frustration for many citizens due to significant processing delays.

The digitalization of procedures has necessitated online applications and scheduled appointments for biometric data collection at the government facility. While this has eliminated long queues at the entrance, it has not resolved the underlying issues of delayed passport issuance. The promised three-week turnaround time for passport processing has stretched into months, causing significant inconvenience for those planning international travel.

Victor Maina's situation exemplifies the frustration felt by many Kenyans. His children's delayed passport applications have hindered their ability to join him abroad for his new employment opportunity, a scenario that resonates with many citizens facing similar bureaucratic hurdles. Despite directives from the Interior Cabinet Secretary to expedite the application process, the reality on the ground suggests that the government's commitment has yet to be fully realized. Citizens continue to grapple with extended timelines which have far-reaching consequences on their personal and professional lives.

Despite the introduction of online appointment scheduling, applicants still face delays when obtaining their biometric data at Nyayo House as they must join another queue once inside the building. This bottleneck continues to impede the efficiency of the system. In February, government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura advised those in urgent need of travel documents to opt for the 50-page passport series, priced at Sh 9,500, due to the unavailability of the 34-page series.

Mwaura attributed this scarcity to the slow delivery of booklets by the supplier and promised the return of the 34-page series. Five months later, the situation remains largely unchanged. Some applicants still find themselves unable to apply for the more affordable 34-page passport series. This has forced individuals to choose the costlier 50-page option simply because they require the document urgently. However, they continue to face delays in the process even after paying the higher fees.