The government is considering scrapping application fees for birth certificates in a move aimed at boosting civil registration across the country, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has said.
Speaking on Wednesday, January 28, during the commissioning of the Assistant County Commissioner’s office in Inoi Division, Kirinyaga County, Murkomen said the proposal is part of ongoing reforms to improve access to essential government services.
The Cabinet Secretary revealed that President William Ruto is expected to make the final pronouncement on the matter once consultations with key stakeholders are concluded.
Murkomen noted that the move mirrors the government’s earlier decision to waive fees for national identity card registration, which led to a significant increase in applications, particularly among young people and marginalized communities.
He said high costs associated with acquiring basic civil documents have been a major barrier to registration, locking many citizens out of critical services such as education, healthcare, and employment.
“If we remove these financial barriers, more Kenyans will be able to access their rights and government services,” Murkomen said.
The Interior CS added that strengthening civil registration is crucial for national planning, service delivery, and security, as it ensures accurate population data and legal identity for all citizens.
If approved, the policy is expected to benefit thousands of families across the country, especially in rural areas where birth registration rates remain low.