Bungoma, Kenya — The Bungoma Immigration Office, initially established in 2010 as a passport collection centre, has recently undergone significant improvements under the leadership of Interior & National Administration Cabinet Secretary, Prof. Kithure Kindiki.
The extensive refurbishment and upgrades have transformed the facility into a fully-fledged Immigration Office, now equipped to serve the counties of Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, West Pokot, Turkana and Trans Nzoia.
President William Ruto officiate the newly upgraded office in a ceremony that marked a significant milestone in the region’s administrative capabilities.
With these advancements, the office is now poised to offer a comprehensive array of services, including the issuance of passports, work permits, and various other services pertinent to the management of foreign nationals.
The transformation of the Bungoma Immigration Office is a testament to the government’s commitment to decentralising essential services and improving access for residents across Western Kenya. Previously, individuals seeking immigration services had to travel to either Kisumu and Nairobi or other distant centres where the services are available, causing inconvenience and delays.
The upgraded facility aims to alleviate these challenges by providing prompt and efficient services closer to home.
In his remarks, Prof. Kithure Kindiki emphasised the importance of these upgrades in enhancing service delivery and operational efficiency.
“The refurbishment of the Bungoma Immigration Office underscores our dedication to ensuring that all Kenyans, regardless of their location, have equal access to crucial government services. This office will play a critical role in streamlining immigration processes and supporting regional development,” said Prof. Kindiki.
President William Ruto echoed CS Kindiki sentiments, highlighting the strategic significance of the office in fostering economic growth and regional integration. “The upgraded facility will not only serve the immediate needs of our citizens but also contribute to the broader objectives of national development. By decentralising services, we are empowering local communities and creating opportunities for greater economic participation,” President Ruto stated.
The fully operational Bungoma Immigration Office is expected to handle an increased volume of applications and inquiries, providing timely and effective solutions to the residents of the seven counties it serves.
The introduction of modern infrastructure and technology is set to enhance the overall user experience, ensuring that services are delivered efficiently and transparently.
The revamped office represents a crucial step forward in the government’s ongoing efforts to improve public service delivery and decentralise administrative functions. Residents of Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega, Vihiga, Trans Nzoia, West Pokot and Turkana can now access a wide range of immigration services locally, fostering greater convenience and reducing the bureaucratic burden traditionally associated with such processes.
As the Bungoma Immigration Office opens its doors to the public, it stands as a beacon of progress and a model for future upgrades in other regions. The successful refurbishment and enhancement of this facility reflect the government’s unwavering commitment to serving the needs of its people and ensuring that all Kenyans can benefit from efficient and accessible public services.