Update: Huduma Kenya scaled down operations at the Huduma Centres, announcing that it would offer two services only. The Presidential Strategic Communication Unit (PSCU) announced on Thursday, March 19.
The agency would allow the collection of processed identity cards (ID’s) and processed birth certificates.
“Kindly be advised that you can still access several government services online and via mobile platforms. These services include KRA, Kenya Power, Business Registration, CRB, select NHIF and NSSF services, NTSA among others,” PSCU tweeted.
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) also suspended key services in adherence to the directives of the National Emergency and Response Committee after Kenya confirmed three cases of Coronavirus (Covid-19).
The agency, via its social media pages on Monday, March 16, announced that it had suspended the issuance of the new digital driving licences, driving tests and motor vehicle inspection.
It also informed that motorists who had already applied for the licences would also not be able to collect their smart driving licences, during the temporary shutdown.
“We wish to inform the public that in line with the directives of the national emergency and response committee on Coronavirus that effective Monday, March 16, 2020, all current smart driving licence bookings have been rescheduled.
“Collection of logbooks, PSV badges, number plates, smart driving licence, driver testing and motor vehicle inspection have been suspended until further notice,” the agency stated.
It also added that those who had booked the smart driving licence online would receive notifications relaying further information.
“Verification and approval of online service applications shall not be affected. We urge our customers to verify the status of their applications within the individual Transport Integrated Management Systems (TIMS) accounts.
“We encourage members of the public to make service enquiries through the free NTSA Mobile Applications, our website and social media pages,” the agency directed.
NTSA’s move raises questions on the fate of motorists as the agency had set a July 1 deadline for acquiring the new digital driving licences. This means that most of them may miss out on the deadline.
On Monday, March 16, President Uhuru Kenyatta directed organisations including government agencies to allow employees to work from home.
“Where possible, government offices, businesses and companies are encouraged to allow employees to work from home with the exception of employees working in critical or essential services,” Kenyatta urged.