By Joel Clinton
For many young people in Manyatta “B”, the path to adulthood starts with one essential document, a national identification card. However, for some residents, this process has turned into years of waiting, frustration, and missed chances.
Ramadhan Omari, a Muslim resident of Manyatta “B”, describes acquiring his ID card as one of the toughest experiences of his life. For three years, he has traveled to various government offices, hoping his name will finally show up in the system. Instead, he holds three waiting cards, each a promise that has not been fulfilled.
“I have followed all the procedures,” Ramadhan explains. “I even went to the area chief with my biological parents for vetting and approval, but I still have not received my ID.”
Despite meeting the requirements, Ramadhan states that his frequent visits to the Huduma Centre have not led to any results. Each visit ends with the same message: his details are not ready or cannot be found in the system.
Without a national ID card, Ramadhan feels his life is on hold. He cannot apply for jobs, sign up for youth programs, or even join youth-led groups that require official identification.
“I feel like I have no identity,” he says, clearly frustrated. “Opportunities pass by because I do not have the document that shows I am a Kenyan.”
Ramadhan’s situation is not unique.Brian Oloo, another youth from the area, shares similar struggles. Since 2020, he has repeatedly received waiting cards, yet his records often seem to be missing when he checks the system.
“My waiting cards are always reported as not being in the system,” Brian says. “Every time I follow up, I am told to wait again.”
These situations have led to a concerning trend in the community. Some youths admit that, out of frustration, they use the names of people who are not their biological parents to obtain ID cards more easily.
Community members worry that such practices may lead to long-term identity issues, including incorrect national records and legal problems down the line.
Local leaders and residents now call on both the County and National governments to step in. They urge the authorities to provide ID registration and verification services closer to the grassroots to tackle the issues many youths face.
An effective and open system is urgently needed to ensure that every eligible Kenyan receives their national ID without discrimination or unnecessary delays.
For Ramadhan and many others in Manyatta “B”, the hope remains simple: to finally hold the document that confirms their place in the nation. Until then, they continue to wait for an identity that they believe is rightfully theirs.
