New Technology Aims to Boost Efficiency

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has deployed an upgraded, tablet-based system for its Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise, which commenced on Monday, September 29, 2025. IEBC Commissioner Anne Nderitu confirmed the shift from the previously used Biometric Voter Registration (BVR) kits, describing the older equipment as cumbersome. The new system utilizes portable tablets, which were previously used for voter identification during the 2022 General Election, and now integrates the voter registration software. This move is part of the commission's strategy to create a single, integrated Kenya Integrated Election Management System (KIEMS) for all electoral processes.

In a significant technological enhancement, the new tablets will capture not only fingerprints but also iris scans, adding a third layer of unique biometric identification for each voter. Officials state this will make the system faster and more secure. According to the IEBC, this technological step-up is designed to improve the efficiency and integrity of the voter roll ahead of the 2027 General Election. Registration is being conducted by IEBC officials at all 290 constituency offices and designated Huduma Centres nationwide during official working hours.

Targeting Millions Amidst Voter Apathy

The commission has set an ambitious target of registering 6.8 million new voters, primarily focusing on young people who have recently attained the age of 18. IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon announced that the commission projects the total number of registered voters to reach approximately 28.5 million by 2027, up from the 22.1 million recorded in the 2022 register. This target is informed by data from the National Registration Bureau on the number of new ID cards issued.

However, the drive has been plagued by low turnout since its launch. Speaking on Thursday, November 13, 2025, Commissioner Anne Nderitu expressed concern over the slow pace of registration, revealing that as of the previous week, only 90,020 new voters had been enlisted, a figure that had risen to approximately 110,000. This is a small fraction of the multi-million target. "In terms of voter registration, we're not doing well as a country, falling short of our target of 6.8 million. Many Kenyans are not coming out to register," Nderitu stated. She urged citizens to avoid a last-minute rush, which poses logistical challenges for the commission.

Clarification on Registration Process

Despite the digital upgrades, the registration process still requires eligible citizens to appear in person before an IEBC official at a designated registration centre. An applicant must present a valid original national ID card or a Kenyan passport to be registered. The process involves filling out a statutory form and having one's biometric data—facial features, fingerprints, and now iris scans—captured by the registration clerk using the tablet. This clarification is crucial as the term "digital registration" refers to the tools used by the commission, not a system for self-registration via personal mobile phones or online portals for new voters. Currently, online IEBC portals and SMS services are available only for registered voters to verify their existing details.

Implications for 2027 General Election

The success of the CVR exercise is critical for ensuring an inclusive and credible election in 2027. The focus on registering young voters is particularly significant, as this demographic has the potential to reshape the country's political landscape. The IEBC has stated that the continuous registration will remain open until eight months before the next general election, after which the register will be closed for auditing and verification. The commission has allocated Sh8 billion for the continuous voter registration exercise within its total Sh57.3 billion election budget. The challenge of voter apathy remains a major hurdle, prompting calls from the commission and civil society for increased civic education and mobilization efforts to ensure all eligible Kenyans can exercise their democratic right.