President William Ruto
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The Kenyan government has announced plans to simplify the national identification card application process to promote inclusivity and eliminate discrimination.
Speaking during an Iftar dinner for Muslim leaders on April 8, 2024, President William Ruto emphasized his commitment to ensuring equal treatment for all Kenyans. The current vetting system for IDs has proven to be a burden for marginalized groups, particularly those of Asian, Arab, and Nubian descent. These communities, often not classified as "indigenous" under Kenyan law, have faced challenges in obtaining essential documentation. Recognizing this disparity, the government is revising the ID issuance guidelines with the specific goal of removing discriminatory practices.
President Ruto further pledges to officially recognize the Kenya Nubian community as a distinct tribe by the end of December 2024. This official recognition will address longstanding grievances within the Nubian community and serve as a significant step towards greater inclusivity within Kenya. The streamlining of the ID application process, coupled with the recognition of the Nubian community, represents a positive shift towards a more equitable Kenyan society.
A detailed policy document outlining the revised ID issuance procedures is expected to be released in May 2024, providing further clarity on the upcoming changes. The Nubian people residing in Kenya have made a formal plea to the government, seeking official recognition as a distinct Kenyan community. Their request revolves around obtaining proper citizenship, which they hope will be facilitated through the timely issuance of Identification Cards (ID) by the government. While the standard fee for obtaining a national identification card (ID) upon reaching the age of 18 is Sh 300 for all Kenyans, the Nubian community is required to pay Sh 800.
This discrepancy has sparked protests against what they perceive as discriminatory vetting processes, inordinate delays, and exorbitant expenses associated with obtaining recognition documents, ultimately hindering their access to essential government services and resources. Nubian Rights Forum Executive Director Shafi Ali Husein contends that this treatment perpetuates the notion that Nubians are not considered full-fledged citizens. Husein vehemently condemns the Kenya Kwanza Government for its arbitrary decision to raise the fees for national IDs and the forceful implementation of the Digital ID System in Kenya.