The Kenyan government has moved swiftly to reassure citizens and international partners that the country’s passport remains secure, following media reports and leaked documents suggesting possible issuance to foreign nationals, including individuals linked to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces.
Immigration and Citizens Services Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang told lawmakers that the Ministry is investigating the claims, which he described as misleading. He insisted that Kenyan passports are issued exclusively to verified citizens who possess a national ID or birth certificate.
Kipsang, appearing before the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security, emphasized that rigorous checks prevent ineligible individuals from obtaining travel documents. He said authorities will “go out of their way” to close any potential loopholes and safeguard the passport’s credibility.
“We have reason to protect our passport,” Kipsang said, describing its defense as a “cardinal duty” and a matter of national interest.
Kenya’s passport is highly regarded regionally. According to recent data, it ranks among the strongest in East Africa and sits in the top 10 in Africa. Holders currently enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to approximately 69 countries worldwide, supporting business, tourism and family travel across the globe.
Concerns sparked by leaked documents
The controversy erupted after leaked internal documents from the Directorate of Immigration Services surfaced online, reportedly listing foreign names — including alleged RSF associates and a Zimbabwean businessman — alongside Kenyan passport application details. Activist Boniface Mwangi shared some of the information publicly, prompting widespread debate on social media and in local media.
Kipsang firmly rejected the notion that foreigners without proper Kenyan citizenship documentation could receive passports. He assured that only rightful citizens benefit from the country’s identification and travel papers.
Any compromise on the passport’s integrity could harm Kenyan travelers by triggering stricter visa requirements or additional scrutiny at international borders, he warned.
The Principal Secretary reiterated the government’s dedication to maintaining high standards in document issuance. He called on Kenyans to remain confident in the systems designed to protect the passport’s value.
This latest assurance comes as Kenya continues to strengthen its immigration framework through digital processes and inter-agency coordination. For more on Kenya’s travel document policies, visit the official eCitizen portal or the Ministry of Interior website.
Kipsang’s remarks aim to calm public anxiety while signaling zero tolerance for any irregularities that could undermine Kenya’s standing in regional and global mobility rankings.
