The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) has issued a public warning regarding individuals posing as KNBS enumerators to conduct fraudulent activities under the pretense of verifying identification documents ahead of the 2027 elections.
Misinformation Campaign
In a statement, KNBS denounced the misinformation circulating on social media, describing it as malicious and aimed at undermining their ongoing household listing exercise. The bureau emphasized that all legitimate KNBS enumerators carry official identification cards containing detailed credentials to confirm their authenticity.
Purpose of the Survey
KNBS is currently conducting the 2025 Remittances Household Survey (2025 RHS), designed to collect qualitative and quantitative data on remittance activities. This survey aims to:
- Gather information on households receiving remittances from family, relatives, or friends abroad (inflows).
- Collect data on households sending remittances to individuals living overseas (outflows).
- Document support from international organizations like the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), World Food Programme (WFP), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and UNHCR.
This nationwide survey covers all counties, with the first phase—the household listing process—having commenced on June 3, 2025, and set to continue for 30 days.
Fake Officials Pose Security Risks
KNBS also addressed a circulating message alleging that a group of individuals is impersonating officials from the Department of Home Affairs. The fake message claims that these individuals are visiting homes to verify identification documents but are instead robbing unsuspecting residents.
The fraudulent documents reportedly feature a counterfeit Department of Home Affairs letterhead and falsely claim affiliation with an official government initiative. The message warns citizens: “They are robbing homes. Take note, there is no initiative like that from the government. Share this with your neighborhood group chat.”
KNBS’ Call to Action
KNBS has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities, including the Central Bank of Kenya and the Ministry of Interior, both of which are involved in the ongoing survey. Citizens are encouraged to verify the credentials of individuals claiming to be enumerators and to contact KNBS directly if in doubt.
