IEBC pleads with Gen Z after only 20,754 register as new voters in 2 weeks
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has expressed concern over the slow pace of voter registration among young people, revealing that only 20,754 new voters have been added to the roll in the past two weeks of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.
In a statement released on Friday, October 10, 2025, the Commission noted that while it appreciates Kenyans who have already registered, transferred, or updated their voter details, the turnout remains far below expectations.
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This comes after the former nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba has criticised IEBC for neglecting to prioritise Gen Z in its ongoing voter registration campaign.
IEBC said that out of its national target of 6.3 million new voters, the current numbers signal a worrying trend, especially among Gen Z and first-time voters who recently attained voting age.
“The Commission appreciates the many Kenyans who have already registered, updated their details, or transferred their voter records. Your participation is vital in strengthening the foundation of free, fair, and credible elections,” IEBC noted.
IEBC stated that as of Wednesday, October 8, 2025, the cumulative figures stood at 20,754 new registrations, 3,207 transfers, and 61 updates. The Commission noted that youth turnout across the country remains disproportionately low, despite ongoing civic education efforts to encourage participation in the 2027 General Election.
“While we commend this progress, turnout among the targeted youth remains lower than expected. With a national target of 6.3 million new voters, the Commission urges all eligible Kenyans, particularly the youth, to take this opportunity to register and make their voices count in the 2027 General Election,” IEBC wrote.
Also watch: IEBC Voter Registration in Naivasha Records Low Turnout.
According to the data released, Nairobi County led the registration tally with 4,804 new voters, followed by Mombasa with 1,379, Kiambu with 1,203, and Nakuru with 840.
Other counties that recorded moderate figures include Machakos with 923, Kisii with 728, and Kilifi with 673 new registrations.
Counties that reported particularly low numbers include Lamu with only 36 new voters, Nyamira with 18, Tana River with 42, and Samburu with 67.
IEBC observed that the trend in these regions reflects broader challenges of voter apathy, logistical difficulties, and limited awareness among eligible youth.
While commending the small progress achieved so far, IEBC urged all eligible citizens, particularly the youth, to take advantage of the ongoing exercise to register. The Commission reiterated that registration is taking place continuously in all 290 constituency offices across the country.
“The Commission urges all eligible Kenyans, especially young people who have recently attained voting age, to visit the nearest constituency office and register,” IEBC stated, adding that participation in the process is the foundation of free, fair, and credible elections.
IEBC also emphasised that the CVR exercise is an important national duty, encouraging Kenyans to view voter registration as both a civic responsibility and a pathway to shaping the country’s political future.
“Your vote begins with registration. Your voice matters. Your future depends on it,” the statement concluded.
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Steve Ireri
Steve is a senior writer with over four years of experience in digital journalism. His focus is on the showbiz and human interest stories. Emails: [email protected] , [email protected]
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