The Principal Secretary for Immigration and Citizen Services, Mr. Belio Kipsang, has led a sensitisation forum for chiefs, assistant chiefs, and other national government officers to strengthen the implementation of government programmes at the grassroots level.
The forum, held in Isiolo town, brought together local administrators and officers from various departments across all sub-counties.
Discussions focused on national ID issuance, combating alcohol and drug abuse, and the policy on 100 per cent transition of learners to senior school.
Mr. Kipsang emphasised that acquiring national identification documents is a constitutional right and is essential for accessing government services, education, employment, and financial opportunities.
He noted that the government abolished vetting committees for ID issuance in 2025 to curb delays, corruption, and discrimination, especially in marginalized regions.
As a result, chiefs are now solely responsible for certifying ID applicants within their areas.
“Chiefs understand their communities and are best placed to verify applicants fairly,” he said. He urged chiefs to act with integrity and professionalism, warning that any abuse of the process would attract disciplinary action. The new system is expected to reduce waiting times for applicants.
On alcohol and drug abuse, the PS called for intensified community sensitisation and strict enforcement, stressing that substance abuse threatens social stability, youth productivity, and education.
Mr. Kipsang also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to achieving 100 per cent transition to senior school under the Competency-Based Education system. He urged local administrators to work closely with education stakeholders to reduce absenteeism and prevent school dropouts.
He noted that effective implementation at the local level is critical to the success of government policies.
The forum is part of a nationwide outreach programme by the Ministry of Interior aimed at improving service delivery and accountability across the country.
By David Nduro
