The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has announced that more than 1.37 million Kenyans have registered as new voters under the ongoing Enhanced Continuous Voter Registration (ECVR) exercise, marking a significant boost ahead of the 2027 General Election.
In a press statement released on Friday, the Commission said the nationwide voter registration drive, which began on March 30, 2026, has recorded strong public participation, particularly among young and first-time voters.
IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon described the turnout as a clear indication of growing public confidence in the country’s democratic process.
Surge in new voter registrations
According to the Commission, a total of 1,370,930 new voters had been registered as of April 16, 2026. This represents an increase of 495,429 new registrations since the last update issued on April 9.
In addition to new registrations, the IEBC recorded 92,602 voter transfers and 1,969 updates of voter details during the same period.
The Commission noted that the growing numbers reflect a nationwide commitment to civic participation, with citizens from urban centres to remote regions turning out to register.
Nairobi leads in registration numbers
Nairobi recorded the highest number of new registrations at 150,166, followed by Kiambu County with 72,055 and Kakamega County with 61,797.
Other counties with notable registration figures include Nakuru County (57,068), Machakos County (47,348), and Bungoma County (43,488).
The data highlights a widespread response across the country, with participation cutting across regions and demographics.
Final push before deadline
The Commission confirmed that the current ECVR exercise will conclude on April 28, 2026, after which voter registration will revert to office-based services.
IEBC cautioned that constituency-based registration often presents accessibility challenges, especially for residents in remote and marginalised areas as well as Persons with Disabilities.
Eligible Kenyans have been urged to take advantage of the ongoing exercise while it remains accessible at designated registration centres nationwide.
Call for inclusive participation
With less than two weeks remaining, the Commission has called on all eligible citizens who have not yet registered to do so, emphasising the importance of inclusive participation in shaping the country’s future.
“Registering as a voter is the first step in safeguarding your democratic right and contributing to the leadership of the country,” the Commission stated.
IEBC also clarified that voters are not required to travel to their home constituencies to register, as the exercise allows registration at any centre, with an option to transfer later.
Commitment to credible elections
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a transparent, credible, and inclusive electoral process, noting that systems have been strengthened down to the ward level to protect the integrity of the voters’ register.
Registered voters have also been encouraged to verify and update their details through the Commission’s online platform.
The ongoing registration drive is expected to play a critical role in shaping the voter base ahead of the 2027 General Election, widely seen as a defining moment for Kenya’s democracy.
