Kenya Moves to Address Statelessness as Communities Struggle Without IDs

The Kenyan National Assembly has pledged full support for the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Bill after hearing harrowing stories from residents in Kinondo, Kwale County, who have been living without national identification documents.

During a recent engagement, the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security met with community members who detailed how lacking IDs has blocked them from basic services for years. Many revealed that they cannot secure employment, access healthcare, open bank accounts, or benefit from aid programs. Others said they are unable to vote, enroll their children in school, or travel freely, leaving them trapped in poverty and marginalization.

“We do not have IDs, and because of that, we cannot work or get any assistance,” one resident explained. Another noted that families are forced to pay high costs for healthcare because they cannot access public insurance schemes. Some residents, though born in Kenya, face repeated questioning of their citizenship due to historical ties with neighboring countries like Burundi.

The lack of documentation also affects government employment. “Even when we are selected for positions, our appointments are never confirmed because we cannot provide IDs. We plead with the government and the Committee to help us. We are suffering,” another community member said.

Youth representatives highlighted the toll on mental health, social stigma, and unemployment, particularly for young people who have completed their education but remain undocumented. Several residents also reported being excluded from government services and restricted in their freedom of movement.

Representatives from UNHCR and Haki Centre emphasized the urgency of reforms, while local leaders described ongoing efforts to maintain updated registers to help identify community members.

Committee Member Rozaah Buyu assured residents that Parliament is committed to resolving their challenges. “What you are experiencing is painful and unacceptable in a Constitutional democracy,” she said. “The Committee will do everything it can to ensure you receive your rights. As long as you were born in Kenya, you are Kenyan. We will make sure the government recognises you so you can enjoy your benefits.”

Other officials present included Hon. Oku Kaunya, the delegation leader, Hon. Protus Akuja, and Feisal Abdallah, the area MP.

The Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Bill aims to simplify identification processes and protect vulnerable communities from statelessness. Committee members confirmed that feedback from residents would be incorporated into the legislation, with the goal of restoring dignity and access to essential rights.