Thousands of Kenyans could soon stop waiting weeks for Certificates of Good Conduct after the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) unveiled a new biometric identification system that promises to cut processing time to as little as one day.
The DCI has announced that it will officially launch the Multi-Biometric Identification System Automated Biometric Identification System Version 5 (MBIS-ABIS V5) on July 20.
The agency says the platform is a major technological upgrade aimed at improving identity verification, speeding up service delivery, and strengthening criminal investigations through the use of advanced biometric technology.
For years, applicants seeking Certificates of Good Conduct have often had to wait up to 14 days before receiving the document. The certificate is widely required for job applications, business opportunities, travel arrangements, and other official processes.
The new system is expected to significantly reduce that waiting period, offering faster access to one of the country’s most important government-issued documents.
According to the DCI, the upgraded platform replaces an older fingerprint identification system that has served the agency for many years.
The new technology is designed to process large volumes of biometric records more efficiently while improving the accuracy of identity checks. Officials say it will help eliminate duplicate records and make verification processes more reliable.
The benefits of the system are expected to extend beyond public service delivery. The DCI says the platform will improve criminal investigations by enabling faster and more accurate matching of biometric records.
Detectives will be able to use modern forensic tools to identify suspects more effectively, helping investigators solve cases with greater efficiency.
The launch of the new biometric platform comes as the government continues to invest in the digital transformation of public services.
In recent years, several state agencies have introduced technology-driven systems aimed at reducing paperwork, improving efficiency, and making services more accessible to citizens.
Among the latest initiatives is the introduction of digital birth certificates, which allow registration records to be accessed electronically.
The government is also preparing to roll out a digital national identity card that is expected to provide secure digital identity verification and simplify access to various government services.
The DCI believes its new biometric platform will complement these efforts by creating a more connected and secure digital identity ecosystem.
With faster verification and improved data accuracy, government agencies will be better placed to serve citizens efficiently.While no changes to application fees or procedures have been announced, the DCI says more information will be provided during the official launch.
If the system performs as expected, it could mark a significant improvement in how Certificates of Good Conduct are issued and further support Kenya’s push toward modern, technology-driven public services.
