IEBC targets 28.5M voters by 2027 as enhanced continuous voter registration begins
By Ndiritu Wanjiru, March 30, 2026The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has set an ambitious target of growing Kenya’s voter register to 28.5 million by the 2027 General Election, following insights drawn from the 2022 Post-Election Evaluation Report, which recorded 22,120,458 registered voters.
The Commission, led by its chairperson, Erastus Ethokon, announced a nationwide rollout of the Enhanced Continuous Voter Registration (ECVR) exercise across all county assembly wards and 57 Huduma Centres during the national launch in Kwale County on March 30, 2026. The initiative aims to register at least 2.5 million new voters.
“By launching the ECVR in Shimoni, Kwale, which is predominantly home to several minority groups, WaTswaka, WaPemba, Makonde, Washirazi, Wavumba and WaRundi, the IEBC reaffirms its commitment to inclusivity, transparency and accessibility in voter registration. Together, we can strengthen democracy and ensure that Kwale County continues to shine as a beacon of opportunity and voter participation,” Ethokon said.
The Commission has announced the gazetting of 30,619 registration centres and deployed over 12,000 poll officials to ensure the success of the exercise. The IEBC stressed that the rollout is meant to get around past problems with voter registration and speed up enrolment by making systems and outreach better.
IEBC to embrace advanced technology
Adding advanced technology, like biometric voter registration modules to the Kenya Integrated Elections Management System (KIEMS), is a key part of the process. The Commission said that strict data protection measures and real-time monitoring will be used to protect the credibility and integrity of the voter register.
Since the resumption of Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) on September 29, 2025, the IEBC has confirmed having registered 273,498 new voters. Notably, Kwale County alone has enrolled 2,547 voters, reflecting growing public enthusiasm and participation in the electoral process.
During the launch, IEBC made a strong appeal to young Kenyans to take advantage of the exercise and register as voters.
“I particularly appeal to the youth: registering today is your voice in tomorrow’s election. This is your moment to claim your rightful place in shaping Kenya’s future,” Ethokon added.
The IEBC chose Kwale County as the launch site because it is a mix of natural beauty, economic potential, and a rich cultural heritage. The Commission also expressed gratitude to the local community, including the Kaya elders, for their warm reception and cultural recognition during the event.
Through the voter registration initiative, IEBC aims not only to expand the voter register but also to strengthen public trust in electoral processes and ensure inclusive participation ahead of the 2027 polls.