The once stateless Makonde community were for the first time counted as Kenyan citizens on Saturday in the ongoing national housing and population census.
The community that largely lives in Kwale county has continued to reap the benefits of being bestowed the Kenyan citizenship in October 2016, when 2,950 members were issued with national identity cards.
And this year, they will be recognised as a 43rd tribe in Kenya.
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Spokesperson Thomas Nguli said their recognition will benefit the community by enabling them to get essential government services as well as employment.
“Unlike in 2009 when we were counted as foreigners, this year we will be recognised as Kenyans,” he told People Daily.
Nguli added that there are 3,000 families of the Makonde community living in Kwale.
MP Owen Baya said the exercise has been smooth and urged residents to cooperate with the enumerators.
