Only one registered in Lamu as IEBC hits 0.1pc of target

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Only one(1) person registered as a new voter in Lamu County during the first week of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), according to the latest report by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

The Commission recorded 7,048 new voters countrywide—just 0.1 percent of its 6.3 million target ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The low turnout has raised concern over growing voter apathy, especially among young people.

The exercise, which began on 29 September 2025, also captured 259 voter transfers, with Laikipia leading at 33, followed by Mombasa and Nairobi.

Top 10 Counties with Highest New Voter Registration

1. Nairobi – 1,597

2. Mombasa – 505

3. Kiambu – 498

4. Kilifi – 425

5. Nakuru – 393

6. Kakamega – 312

7. Machakos – 275

8. Meru – 210

9. Kisumu – 198

10. Kajiado – 193

Top 10 Counties with Lowest New Voter Registration

1. Lamu – 1

2. Tana River – 3

3. Isiolo – 4

4. Samburu – 5

5. Wajir – 7

6. Garissa – 9

7. Marsabit – 10

8. Tharaka Nithi – 13

9. Elgeyo Marakwet – 15

10. West Pokot – 18

The IEBC, chaired by Erastus Edung Ethekon, said the exercise targets all unregistered Kenyans, particularly first-time voters, and will also allow for correction or transfer of voter details.

For the first time, the Commission is using iris recognition technology alongside fingerprints and facial images to improve voter identification accuracy.

It assured the public that all data is handled in line with the Data Protection Act, 2019, warning that any misuse would attract legal sanctions.

Several national leaders have urged Kenyans—especially Gen Zs—to take voter registration seriously.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua appealed to young people to “turn their online energy into real change by registering to vote,” saying the power to transform the country lies in their hands.

Former Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana cautioned against “systemic barriers” that could discourage youth participation, citing delays in issuance of ID cards.

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has also pressed the IEBC to ensure that registration centres are easily accessible.

Church leaders, under the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK), joined the call, saying, “The voice of young people will only count if they register as voters.”

Despite the slow start, the IEBC maintained optimism that the numbers would improve as civic awareness spreads.

“Voting begins with registration,” the Commission said in its appeal to citizens.