Kenyans to obtain passports within one week

Speaking on Wednesday, Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof. Kithure Kindiki said he had directed the Immigration Department to clear the current backlog of 42,000 passports within the next 21 days and thereafter begin issuing the travel document within 7 days.

"To unlock the backlog within the Immigration department, I have directed that the 42,000 pending passport applications be processed within 21 days. Thereafter, all applications must be processed within 7 days," said the CS.

Prof. Kindiki further assured that in emergency situations for applicants seeking medical and educational services, their applications must be considered and processed within 24 hours.

He pointed out that the current backlog had been occasioned by the breaking down of the printing machine.

"I plead for patience from all those seeking services at the Immigration department. Within 7 days, the faulty printing equipment will be fixed. 60,000 booklets were delivered last Friday and will be used to deal with the backlog of 42,000 passport applications," said Kindiki.