Registering a death — government steps
What families typically need to do with government after a death in Kenya. This is general information, not legal or funeral advice.
1. Medical and burial processes
Hospitals or authorised medical practitioners issue death-related medical documentation. Burial and cremation arrangements follow family, cultural and local authority rules.
2. Register the death
Death registration creates the legal record needed for a death certificate. Use civil registration / eCitizen pathways or assisted service at a Huduma Centre where available.
3. Death certificate uses
A death certificate is often required for:
- bank and insurance claims
- pension and social security processes
- succession and estate administration
- updating voter and other public registers where applicable
4. Estates and succession (high level)
Inheritance and estate administration follow succession law and may involve the courts or other formal processes. This website does not provide legal advice — speak to a qualified advocate or legal aid provider for your situation.