Kenya Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has directed officials to fast track the issuance of national identity cards to foreign women married to Kenyan men in Taita Taveta County to enhance citizenship recognition and civic participation.
Murkomen said the exercise will target eligible foreign spouses and youths to ensure they are registered as voters before the 2027 General Election. He emphasized that the process will be free and warned against any form of exploitation.
“The issuance of IDs is free of charge and nobody should be charged,” Murkomen said during a public address in Mwatate Sub County. “This process must begin immediately to ensure these women are recognized as Kenyans and can exercise their democratic rights.”
Taita Taveta County, which borders Tanzania, has recorded a significant number of cross border marriages over the years. Government data indicates that more than 2000 Tanzanian women are married to Kenyan men in the region, many of whom have yet to obtain national identification documents.
Cross border marriages drive policy shift
Murkomen said the lack of IDs has excluded many from accessing essential services and participating fully in national development. The initiative seeks to address long standing administrative delays affecting such families.
“There are many cross border marriages in this region and we are implementing programs to ensure proper documentation,” he said.
The announcement comes amid heightened political activity in the coastal region, traditionally considered an opposition stronghold. Murkomen visit follows recent tours by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who has been rallying support for President William Ruto re election bid.
During his earlier visit, Kindiki inspected development projects and highlighted government efforts to improve livelihoods in the region. Analysts view the ID rollout as both a governance measure and a strategic move to expand the voter base.
Murkomen reiterated that the initiative is about inclusion and rights. “This is about ensuring every eligible person participates in nation building,” he said.
