In a major step toward decentralizing public service delivery, the government has commenced the construction of multiple Huduma Centres across Kilifi County, aiming to bring essential services closer to the people. The initiative, spearheaded by Huduma Kenya CEO Benjamin Kai Chilumo, includes new centres in Chonyi, Ganze, Malindi, and Kaloleni, with plans to extend to Rabai and Watamu in the next financial year.
Currently, Kilifi County has only one Huduma Centre, located in Kilifi Town, forcing many residents—especially those in remote areas—to travel long distances, often to Mombasa, for basic government services.
Speaking during the launch of the Malindi Huduma Centre at the Deputy County Commissioner’s office, Chilumo highlighted the transformative potential of the new facilities. “This centre is not just about documents—it’s about dignity, development, and digital opportunity,” he said. “We are including a music recording studio for our talented youth, a digital hub for accessing online work, and a passport processing unit. We want to empower our people, especially the youth.”
Malindi Deputy County Commissioner David Lusava emphasized the centre’s role in making services such as national identity cards, birth certificates, and NHIF registration more accessible. He praised the partnership with the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) and the office of Malindi MP Amina Laura Mnyazi for facilitating the digital hub within the centre.
Kilifi Deputy Governor Flora Mbetsa Chibule echoed the importance of the initiative, particularly in tackling youth-related challenges. “Sixty percent of Kilifi’s population is made up of young people. These centres will play a critical role in offering them real, practical opportunities,” she noted.
Malindi MP Amina Laura Mnyazi expressed her appreciation for the collaborative effort that secured space within the Deputy County Commissioner’s compound, saying, “This project is a reflection of what coordinated leadership can achieve. It’s about changing lives.”
Kilifi Woman Representative Gertrude Mbeyu Mwanyanje also lauded the move, calling the new centres a “lifeline” for rural residents who have long struggled with limited access to government services.
Construction of the new Huduma Centres is expected to be completed in phases, with the Malindi facility leading the way. Residents and leaders alike are hopeful that this bold step will usher in a new era of convenience, opportunity, and inclusive development across Kilifi County.