The Kenyan government has made changes to the eCitizen portal to allow Kenyans
living and working abroad to open an account using their email addresses. The changes
were announced by Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu through a
notice posted on Twitter.
Njogu stated that eCitizen services were significantly enhanced and registration
processes simplified to accommodate more individuals. Unlike before, when those
opening an account on the portal were required to provide their electronic mail and
phone numbers, Kenyans can now sign up for an account with an email ID only.
This new development is in line with President Ruto’s pledge to improve services to
Kenyans in the diaspora as well as digitize government services.
During a meeting with Kenyans living in the United States in Washington, D.C last
month, Ruto said the newly created State Department for Diaspora Affairs will boost
service delivery to Kenyans abroad, especially on consular matters.
He emphasized the crucial role that Kenyans abroad play in Kenya’s economy, noting
that diaspora remittances are now Kenya’s biggest source of foreign exchange.
The principal secretary clarified that if you already have an account, you don’t need to
change anything. This change is for those who do not have eCitizen accounts, and it is
aimed at making it easier for Kenyans living abroad to access government services.