Immigration and Citizen Services Principal Secretary Julius Bitok urged the private sector to adopt the use of new digital identification cards during a meeting with industry representatives on Friday.
Bitok said the rollout of the cards in the coming weeks will help businesses minimize fraud risks by providing more efficient and reliable client authentication. The PS added that the digital ID system will also support business innovations.
Read also: Intelligence officer among 9 arrested over missing KES 160M sacco money
“The digital identity systems enable innovative solutions like mobile banking and agent networks, transforming e-commerce processes,” Bitok said.
He went on to add that the government will ensure the design of the digital ID, the third generation ID and the unique personal identifier will ease business transactions and facilitate commerce.
On the other hand, the private sector representatives supported the digital system as it will ensure their businesses are secured from fraudsters. Federation of Kenya Public Transport Sector Chairman Edwin Mukabana said the matatu industry embraces the new system as it will help curb rogue drivers.
The digital ID card will have added features, unlike the current national ID card. It will include superior security and technology features that support a digital mode of identification. Bitok is currently leading a team that is collecting public views on the new system.
The government has made it clear that the proposed digital ID dubbed “Maisha Namba” is not compulsory for all Kenyans. The state says no Kenyan will be forced to take up the card and the current identification cards will continue to be recognized as valid identification documents.
Read also: KRA sheds light on its training partnership with KDF for new field staff
According to Bitok, the new system of identification is being introduced to comply with international standards of identification. He hopes many Kenyans will embrace the Maisha Card.
Email your news TIPS to editor@thesharpdaily.com
