Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has revealed that starting September 1st, Kenyan passport applications will be processed within a record time of three days. This significant reduction in processing time follows the government’s commitment to streamline and expedite the passport application process.
Addressing the media, CS Kindiki stated, “Effective 1st May 2024, all applications for the Kenyan passport will be processed within 21 days, reducing to 7 days from August 1, 2024, and further to 3 days from 1st September 2024.” This move comes after the government’s recent acquisition of new printing machines to enhance efficiency.
Kindiki highlighted the successful resolution of historical delays in passport processing, emphasizing the government’s efforts to eliminate bottlenecks and improve service delivery. The backlog of 724,000 pending passports has been significantly reduced, with measures in place to prevent future delays.
Furthermore, the Directorate of Immigration has been tasked with developing a sustainability plan to ensure timely production and collection of passports. An ongoing Rapid Results Initiative will expedite the delivery process, with plans to publish applicant names and collection points for transparency.
In a crackdown on corruption within the immigration department, Kindiki disclosed that 17 officers had been arrested and charged, signaling a renewed commitment to combat cartels hindering passport processing reforms. The government’s initiative to transform the immigration department aims to enhance service delivery and address public concerns regarding passport issuance delays.
