Chuka: More than 3,300 government documents, including national identity cards, birth certificates, and death certificates, remain uncollected at Chuka Huduma Centre, and the management is urging applicants to collect them.
According to Kenya News Agency, Huduma Centre Manager Rosemary Kaloki stated that the facility is currently holding 3,379 unclaimed documents, with national identity cards accounting for the largest share. The breakdown includes 2,840 duplicate identity cards, 428 new identity cards, 111 birth certificates, and seven death certificates.
Kaloki noted that failure by applicants to collect processed documents remains a major challenge, leading to congestion and straining storage space at the centre. She urged members of the public to collect their documents as soon as they are notified, emphasizing the importance of timely collection.
She explained that national identity cards typically take about three weeks to process before they are ready for collection. Kaloki added that the centre uses several communication channels to notify applicants, including SMS messages, phone calls, and emails where available. She further stated that the centre collaborates with area chiefs and assistant chiefs to help relay information to residents once their documents are ready.
The manager urged applicants to carry their collection slips or valid identification documents when visiting the centre to collect their processed papers without delay. She also emphasized the importance of birth certificates, noting that they are essential for accessing a wide range of government services, including education and registration processes.
Kaloki clarified that in cases where an applicant dies before collecting a national identity card, the document cannot be issued to another person. She explained that the next of kin should apply for a death certificate instead of collecting the ID. She appealed to residents to regularly check the status of their applications and collect documents promptly to improve service delivery and reduce congestion at the centre.
