A new legislative proposal aims to make it easier for stateless persons living in Kenya to gain citizenship.
The Bill, sponsored by Kilifi North MP Owen Baya, seeks to amend the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act to remove the time limit currently imposed on stateless individuals applying for Kenyan nationality.
On Tuesday, July 1, 2025, the Administration and Internal Security Committee met with MP Baya to discuss the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration (Amendment) Bill.
The proposed law would change Section 15 of the Act, allowing stateless persons who have lived in Kenya for at least seven continuous years to be considered lawfully resident and eligible to apply for Kenyan citizenship.
In addition to removing time restrictions, the Bill also proposes a new Section 15A, which would allow for the registration of children born to stateless parents in Kenya.
MP Baya urged the committee to fast-track the Bill, noting the daily struggles that stateless people face due to lack of documentation.
“A stateless person cannot get an ID card. Without it, they cannot open a bank account, seek employment, register for exams, or even access government services. This is an urgent plea for justice. Let’s allow these individuals to enjoy the same rights as any other Kenyan,” he said.
Committee Chair Gabriel Tongoyo, who represents Narok West, said the committee would look into areas of concern in the Bill and give it the support needed for it to move to the next stage of debate.
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