Vipi Radio
Following the discontinuation of the Huduma Namba project, the Kenyan government is now embarking on a fresh initiative to create a new digital identification system with enhanced features.
The aim of this new digital ID system is to provide citizens and residents with a unique and easily verifiable digital identifier, ultimately improving service delivery and promoting financial inclusion.
To ensure the effective implementation and regulation of digital identities, the government is concurrently developing a comprehensive policy framework that may involve amending the existing ICT Policy 2019.
This framework will establish principles and standards governing the collection, storage, usage, and sharing of personal information, with a strong emphasis on protecting individuals’ privacy and security.
Interestingly, the new Unique Personal Identifier (UPI) may sound familiar to Kenyans, as it bears similarities to the previous Huduma Namba initiative, also known as the National Integrated Identity Management System (NIIMS).
However, the previous project faced numerous challenges, including court cases and public skepticism, as the government failed to adequately communicate the benefits of digital IDs.
With the launch of the new digital ID system and the accompanying policy framework, the Kenyan government aims to rebuild trust, address previous concerns, and ensure the effective utilization of digital identities for the benefit of all citizens.
