Identity verification in Kenya has become a crucial aspect of the country, as the country is seeing a growing demand for secure and reliable methods of verifying identities, especially in the financial sector.
Over the past decade, the global identity verification market has witnessed tremendous growth, with spending projected to surpass 18 billion U.S. dollars by 2027, according to industry reports. As a result, the Kenyan government and private organizations have invested heavily in cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions to enhance identity verification processes. With a robust identity verification framework in place, Kenya is poised to benefit from increased financial inclusion, reduced fraud, and improved security in the years to come.
This article addresses how to carry out identity verification in Kenya. We have also answered your frequently asked questions on how to verify a Kenyan citizen.
What is Identity Verification in Kenya?
Identity verification in Kenya is the process of confirming that a person is a citizen of Kenya. It is primarily done through the National Integrated Identity Management System (NIIMS), also known as Huduma Namba. This system was introduced by the Kenyan government in 2019 to create a central database of all citizens and foreigners living in the country.
To carry out identity verification in Kenya, you will have to obtain a Huduma Namba, individuals are required to provide their biometric verification data, such as fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris scans, as well as personal information such as their name, date of birth, and address. The data is then stored in a secure central database, which can be accessed by authorized government agencies for identity verification purposes.
What are the Documents Required for Identity Verification in Kenya?-How to Verify a Kenyan’s Identity.
In order to verify a Kenyan’s identity, certain documents are required for identity verification in Kenya. In addition to Huduma Namba, other forms of identity verification in Kenya include the use of:
1. Passports
The Republic of Kenya's Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government is responsible for issuing Kenyan passports and other travel documents. Using these documents, you can confirm your customers' nationality, name, and date of birth. Follow this guide to apply for a Kenyan passport online.
2. National Identification Cards (IDs)
The Embassy of the Republic of Kenya issues the national ID for Kenyan citizens who are 18 years old and above. Those who obtain Kenyan citizenship through registration are also eligible to receive the ID. It is possible to confirm your customers' date of birth, gender, name, and ID number using this card.
3. Driver's licenses.
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) was created in 2012 in Kenya to streamline and enhance the management of the road transport sector, including licensing. Through the use of NTSA licenses, you can authenticate your customers' names, addresses, dates of birth, and license numbers.
These documents contain biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial recognition, and can be used to verify an individual's identity when accessing government services or conducting financial transactions. Aside from these means of identity verification in Kenya, there are other digital means of verifying identities.
Overall, identity verification in Kenya is an important aspect of the Kenyan government, as it is required for accessing various services and conducting legal transactions. The government is constantly working to improve the efficiency and security of identity verification processes in the country to ensure the protection of citizens' personal information.
Related: How to verify Identity in the UK
How to Search ID Numbers by Name in Kenya- Is it possible to search ID Numbers by Name in Kenya?
To identify an ID number in Kenya by name, presenting a birth certificate is the sole method, and it must be done at a Huduma Center. A birth certificate has a unique serial number, which simplifies the identification of the person to whom a particular ID number belongs. You can verify the status of your ID card from the comfort of your home by checking online or via SMS. This guide, explains the step-by-step process of how to check your ID status.
Update: Read about the new trends in digital identity verification in Kenya
In Conclusion:
Identity verification in Kenya is important as it helps to ensure that Kenya as a country combats money laundering, hence preventing it from being blacklisted. Also, financial institutions can know their customers (KYC) reducing the risk of fraud.
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