The government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening security and expanding access to national identification documents in the Coast region following the abolition of extra vetting requirements for ID applicants.
The commitment was made during a high-level consultative meeting bringing together Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, governors and regional leaders to review the implementation of key government programmes across the Coast.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said the reforms are intended to ensure all eligible Kenyans can obtain national identification documents without unnecessary barriers while maintaining robust security measures across the region.
“We are committed to strengthening security while ensuring that every eligible citizen can conveniently access national identification documents and other government services,” Omollo said.
Coast remains a strategic national gateway
Omollo noted that the Coast region occupies a critical position in Kenya’s security and economic landscape due to its role as the country’s maritime gateway and frontier region.
He said the government continues to prioritise investments that enhance border management, maritime security, trade facilitation and regional connectivity while ensuring residents benefit from efficient public services.
“As Kenya’s frontier and maritime gateway, the Coast region plays a strategic role in border management, maritime security, trade and regional connectivity,” he said.
According to Omollo, improving security and service delivery will support economic growth while promoting national cohesion across the six coastal counties.
Focus on national IDs after vetting reforms
The meeting also reviewed progress made following President William Ruto’s decision to abolish additional vetting requirements that had previously affected some applicants seeking national identity cards.
Omollo said the government is working to ensure the reforms translate into faster access to identification documents, enabling citizens to enjoy their constitutional rights and access essential government services.
He emphasised that national identification remains critical for accessing education, employment, financial services, healthcare and government programmes.
“The reforms are aimed at ensuring that all eligible citizens can conveniently access national IDs and other government services without unnecessary delays,” Omollo said.
Multi-agency approach to development
The consultative meeting brought together Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Hassan Ali Joho, Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Salim Mvurya, and senior national and county government officials.
Also in attendance were Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir, Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro, Lamu Governor Issa Timamy and Tana River Governor Dhadho Gaddae Godhana.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi also participated alongside Immigration and Citizen Services Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang, Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar and Youth Affairs and the Creative Economy Principal Secretary Fikirini Jacobs.
Government pledges continued engagement
Omollo said regular consultations between the national government and county leadership remain essential in addressing security concerns and accelerating service delivery across the Coast region.
He added that the government will continue working closely with local leaders to ensure development programmes are effectively implemented while safeguarding the region’s strategic importance to Kenya’s economy.
“Our commitment is to work together with all stakeholders to enhance security, improve service delivery and ensure every eligible Kenyan enjoys equal access to government services,” Omollo said.
The meeting forms part of the government’s broader efforts to strengthen coordination between national and county governments as it implements key development, security and governance programmes across the country.
