In a move aimed at resolving a long-standing issue, the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, under the leadership of CS Kithure Kindiki,, has initiated a 30-day Rapid Results Initiative (RRI) to clear the backlog of uncollected passports. The initiative, set to commence on Monday, September 25th, 2023, marks a significant milestone in addressing the challenges faced by countless Kenyan citizens awaiting their travel documents.

This ambitious endeavor comes as a welcome relief to the owners of 87,574 passports that are now ready but remain unclaimed. The distribution of these uncollected passports is as follows:

  • Nyayo House (Nairobi) – 36,170
  • Embu Regional Office – 10,409
  • Eldoret Regional Office – 9,938
  • Kisumu Regional Office – 9,515
  • Nakuru Regional Office – 8,023
  • Kisii Regional Office – 7,971
  • Mombasa Regional Office – 5,424

To ensure a seamless process, the Immigration Department will publish a list of all applicants whose passports are due for collection every Wednesday during the RRI period. This strategic step aims to streamline the collection process and ensure that applicants are well-informed about their passport status.

It is crucial to note that those who fail to collect their passports within the stipulated period and at the expiry of the due notice will face legal penalties and the forfeiture of their passports in accordance with the law. This underscores the importance of prompt action by passport holders during this initiative.

The government’s commitment to resolving the passport backlog is further exemplified by the forthcoming procurement of modern printing equipment by the Immigration Department. This investment is poised to triple passport production capacity, ultimately preventing the recurrence of such extensive delays in passport issuance.

While awaiting the arrival of this modern equipment, the Immigration Department continues to operate in 24-hour shifts for the processing and production of passports. Special attention will be given to emergency applications, particularly for individuals seeking medical care abroad, students preparing for admission to foreign learning institutions, and those with impending job opportunities abroad.

This remarkable effort by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration deserves commendation for its commitment to addressing a long-standing issue affecting Kenyan citizens. The Rapid Results Initiative serves as a testament to the government’s dedication to its citizens’ needs and its determination to streamline administrative processes. It is a significant step toward enhancing efficiency and ensuring that essential documents, like passports, are delivered promptly to their rightful owners.

As we anticipate the launch of this initiative on September 25th, Kenyan citizens are encouraged to keep an eye on various media outlets and social media platforms for the publication of designated collection points. Let us collectively appreciate the efforts of the Ministry of Interior and National Administration in clearing the passport backlog, a move that will undoubtedly benefit countless citizens in their travel endeavors.