Kenya Moves to Scrap Fees for Birth and Death Certificates, Decentralises Civil Registration Offices

The Kenyan government plans to remove fees for birth and death certificates. The move aims to boost civil registration and make documents more accessible. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced the plan on Wednesday, January 28, during the commissioning of the Inoi Division headquarters and the unveiling of the National Registration Bureau and Civil Registration Services in Kiawara, Kirinyaga Central.

Murkomen said the move addresses long delays and difficulties in obtaining vital records. He added that President William Ruto will give the final approval after consulting key stakeholders. The plan mirrors the government’s successful ID card fee waiver, which increased registration rates. “The president is still reviewing the details. Once completed, we will notify the public. Like the ID fee waiver, birth certificates will be easier to access, in line with the bottom-up agenda,” Murkomen said.

The CS also announced the decentralisation of civil registration services. Constituency ID registration centres will now host offices for birth and death certificates. Officers will be deployed to reduce long waits and long trips. Murkomen said these documents are vital for school enrollment, jobs, healthcare, and other services.

Currently, new certificates cost KSh 200, up from KSh 50, while late registrations cost KSh 500. Many Kenyans face challenges due to fees, distance, and long queues. “Access to essential services has been a common request from citizens in our Jukwaa la Usalama forums. The government is committed to responding quickly, especially in high-population and remote areas,” Murkomen said.

The new measures will make civil registration faster and more inclusive. Eliminating fees and bringing services closer to people ensures all Kenyans can easily access vital records.

This reform is a major step in reducing bureaucracy. It promotes civic participation and shows the government’s commitment to improving public service delivery nationwide.