Kenya to Launch Digital ID System in December After Two-Month Testing Period

Kenya is gearing up to roll out a national digital identification system in December following a two-month testing phase, according to comments made by President William Ruto.

The digital IDs will be introduced alongside a new system of lifelong identification numbers called Maisha Namba that will be assigned to citizens upon registration.

The joint digital ID framework aims to help Kenya streamline access to government, education, and healthcare services for its citizens. It will also aid in digitizing paper-based records and registries.

The digital ID, which has been a major problem to us for a very long time, is now on testing mode for the next two months, said President Ruto. I have been assured by all the stakeholders and the ministries concerned that by December we will be able to launch digital IDs.

Proponents say the digital system will curb fraud, reduce corruption, and improve efficiency compared to traditional paper documents. Private companies have also been urged to adopt the digital IDs to enable innovative financial services and e-commerce solutions.

The forthcoming launch comes as Kenya looks to leverage technology to solve long-standing challenges with identification and service delivery. Earlier this year, the Central Bank of Kenya expressed doubts about the need for a central bank digital currency in the near future, pointing instead to other digital ecosystem innovations.

With the testing period paving the way for full-scale adoption, Kenya appears on track to join nations utilizing modern digital IDs to streamline administration and empower citizens. After the anticipated rollout in December, eyes will be on how successfully the system achieves its ambitious goals.