Kenya’s Parliament is considering a new law to improve access to birth and death registration services by establishing offices in every constituency. The Births and Deaths Registration (Amendment) Bill, 2024, introduced by Gilgil MP Martha Wangari, seeks to address the current shortage of registration offices, which currently stand at only 143 nationwide.
The limited number of offices has made it difficult for many Kenyans, particularly in rural areas, to obtain essential documents like birth and death certificates. These documents are crucial for accessing key services, including education, healthcare, and employment.
The bill aims to make the process of obtaining these certificates more efficient, especially for those in remote and marginalized areas. “If passed, this bill will make it easier for Kenyans to access birth and death certificates, which are critical for accessing social services,” the bill states.
Additionally, the proposed amendment is expected to enhance the accuracy and completeness of vital records, which play a significant role in national planning and resource allocation. More registration offices would facilitate the collection and management of this important data.
