For various reasons—personal rebranding, marriage, or simply to adopt a nickname officially—many Kenyans are increasingly interested in changing their names. From politicians like former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko to Uasin Gishu billionaire Zedekiah Kiprop “Buzeki,” name changes are often used to resonate better with communities and create stronger identities.
If you’re considering a legal name change in Kenya, here’s everything you need to know, including the process, necessary documentation, fees, and locations to complete your application.
Why You Might Consider Changing Your Name in Kenya
There are numerous reasons people decide to change their names:
- Personal Rebranding: Some adopt names that are easier to pronounce or more reflective of their current identity.
- Marriage or Divorce: Married individuals may wish to take on a spouse’s name, and divorced individuals might want to revert to a maiden or prior name.
- Parentage: Single mothers may wish to update a child’s last name to match their own.
- Correction of Errors: Mistakes in birth certificates or ID documents are a common reason.
- Religious or Cultural Reasons: People may choose names that align more closely with their faith or culture.
- Avoiding Negative Associations: Some people change their names to dissociate from unpleasant names or ones associated with ridicule.
What You Need Before Changing Your Name in Kenya
To apply for a name change, specific documents and conditions are required depending on your reason for the change. Key required documents include:
- Deed Poll: A legal document for name changes, drafted at the Registrar General’s office or by a lawyer.
- Birth Certificate: Your original birth certificate or a certified copy.
- Affidavit: Sworn by a witness who has known you for at least ten years.
- Marriage or Divorce Certificate: Required if the name change is due to marriage or divorce.
- Parental/Spouse Consent: Needed for minors or married individuals.
- Letter from Area Chief: Depending on your reason, a chief’s letter may be necessary.
- Passport Photos: Two recent, high-quality passport photos.
Other relevant documents can include a baptism certificate, school leaving certificates, and proof of citizenship.
Step-by-Step Process to Legally Change Your Name in Kenya
1. Draft and Submit a Deed Poll
- Begin at the Registrar General’s Office to draft a Deed Poll, which will serve as your official declaration of the name change.
- You can also consult an attorney to ensure the deed poll is drafted correctly.
- Fee: Ksh 500 is required to register the Deed Poll.
2. Complete the Application Forms
- Fill out Form 1 of the Registration of Documents, detailing the name change particulars.
- An application form (Form A) is required, which is available at the Registrar General’s Office.
3. Submit Supporting Documentation
- Attach your birth certificate and a statutory declaration (Form 6) by someone who knows you personally.
- Submit all documents to the Registrar of Documents.
4. Publication in the Kenya Gazette
- Once your application is approved, the name change is published in the Kenya Gazette, making the change official. This step adds legitimacy and ensures public awareness of your new name.
Updating Your Name on Identification Documents
After changing your name officially, you may want to update it on your Identity Card (ID) and other documents.
Procedure for Changing Your Name on the Kenyan ID:
- Obtain Form 1 (Deed Poll) from the Registrar General’s Office.
- Submit Identification and Supporting Documents: This includes the deed poll, marriage or divorce certificates, birth certificate, affidavits, and other relevant documents.
- Surrender the Old ID and pay a processing fee of Ksh 1,000.
- Verification and Issue of New ID: Your photograph will be taken, and a certificate will be issued, after which the Principal Registrar will issue your new ID within 60 days.
Important Restrictions for Name Changes in Kenya
The Registrar has the authority to refuse certain names if they:
- Are impossible to pronounce or include numbers, symbols, or punctuation.
- Are offensive or promote racial, religious, or criminal associations.
- Suggest a title or rank (e.g., “Sir,” “Professor,” “Prince”) without entitlement.
Costs and Processing Times
- Drafting and Registering a Deed Poll: Ksh 500.
- Updating ID Card: Ksh 1,000, with processing time typically up to 60 days.
- Gazette Publication: Typically included in processing fees but may require additional time for official notice in the Kenya Gazette.
Registrar’s Office Locations and Contacts
To initiate the name change process, visit the Registrar General’s Department:
- Office of the Attorney General – Sheria House
- Harambee Avenue, Nairobi, Kenya
- Phone: +254-2-2227461 / 0711 944555
- Registrar General – Cooperative Bank House
- Haile Selassie Avenue, Nairobi, Kenya
- Phone: +254-2-2224029 / +254-733-241111
Changing your name in Kenya is straightforward, as long as you meet all the requirements, complete the forms accurately, and follow the steps outlined above. Whether for personal, cultural, or professional reasons, the process is designed to accommodate a range of needs while ensuring that the change is publicized and legally recognized. With the right documentation and patience, you’ll soon have your new name legally acknowledged across all official documents.
