In a bid to cut long queues and delays, Public Service and Human Capital Development Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has announced plans to decentralize passport processing from congested immigration offices like Nairobi’s Nyayo House to Huduma Centres countrywide.
The move aims to improve efficiency, reduce congestion, and shorten waiting times for Kenyans seeking passports. Currently, applicants endure overcrowded conditions at Nyayo House and other immigration offices, a longstanding issue Ruku seeks to resolve.
During an impromptu visit to Huduma Centres in Thika and Kiambu on Tuesday morning, CS Ruku noted that many Kenyans have repeatedly requested the inclusion of passport services at Huduma Centres.
“There is one service most Kenyans come to Huduma Centres asking for—passport registration. We will coordinate with the Ministry of Immigration to ensure this can be done here,” he said.
Currently, Kenya has nine passport centres located in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret, Embu, Kisii, Bungoma, and Kericho. Ruku said the government would still retain these centres for document submission where necessary.
“As a government, we are committed to expanding immigration services to Huduma Centres while still accommodating certain needs at Nyayo House or other offices,” he added.
The ministry is also working with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to fast-track the issuance of Certificates of Good Conduct, which are often required alongside passport applications.
Ruku said the changes reflect the government’s broader efforts to enhance public service delivery and eliminate unnecessary bureaucracy.
