By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a bold step toward modernizing its identity management systems, the Government of Sierra Leone, through the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), has introduced the Biometric National Identification Card. This groundbreaking initiative is revolutionizing identity verification, bolstering security, and facilitating seamless access to critical services for citizens and residents alike.
The Biometric National ID Card integrates advanced technologies such as fingerprint and facial recognition, offering a tamper-proof system that protects individual identities. This innovation has drastically reduced identity fraud, earning the trust of public and private stakeholders alike.
In a bid to enhance efficiency, the NCRA recently partnered with BlueRibbon to organize a one-day training session on a new online registration platform. Held at the NCRA headquarters on King Harman Road, Freetown, the session brought together staff from across the country to learn about the platform’s functionalities. The online system allows citizens to apply for services such as identity cards, birth and death certificates, and other vital documents from the comfort of their homes.
The initiative, championed by NCRA Director General Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, aims to decongest registration facilities and address operational bottlenecks, ensuring a seamless service delivery experience while preparing the country for future technological advancements.
The NCRA has recorded several significant accomplishments under this program, including:
- Widespread Registration: Over 80% of eligible citizens are now registered, ensuring inclusivity.
- Service Integration: The ID card links to banking, healthcare, and social welfare services, streamlining access.
- Enhanced Security: The card’s linkage to mobile SIM cards has reduced cybercrime and unregistered communications.
- Streamlined Passport Issuance: Integration with passport services has expedited processing times.
The Biometric National ID Card has become a cornerstone of socio-economic development, enabling businesses to verify identities reliably, reducing fraud, and improving transaction security. It has also enhanced electoral integrity, ensuring that only eligible voters participate in elections.
While logistical issues in remote areas and public skepticism initially posed hurdles, the NCRA successfully addressed these through mobile registration units and targeted awareness campaigns, significantly increasing participation.
Looking ahead, the NCRA plans to expand the platform’s applications to include:
- Tax Administration: Enhancing revenue collection and fiscal planning.
- Digital Voting: Promoting transparency in electoral processes.
- E-Governance: Establishing Sierra Leone as a digital transformation leader in West Africa.
President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has praised the initiative, describing it as pivotal to national development. “The Biometric National Identification Card fosters transparency, security, and equitable access to services, ensuring every citizen can thrive,” he affirmed.
To meet growing demand, the NCRA has established multiple registration centers across Sierra Leone, including:
- Freetown Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown
- King Harman Road Office: 23B Off King Harman Road, Freetown
- Lumley Road Office: Near the Roundabout, Freetown
- Waterloo Office: Opposite the Police Station, along Freetown Highway
- Regional Offices: Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko
For inquiries, residents can contact the NCRA via:
- Phone: +232-33-433-333 or +232-30-500-000
- Email: idverification@ncra.gov.sl
As part of its digital security strategy, the NCRA has mandated the linking of National Identification Numbers (NINs) to mobile SIM cards. The exercise, running from September 1 to November 30, 2024, aims to combat fraudulent activities and improve mobile service efficiency. Non-compliance may result in suspension of services, including calls, SMS, and mobile money transactions.
To facilitate this process, additional registration centers have been established nationwide. Citizens are urged to:
- Obtain their National ID Cards.
- Link their NINs to their SIM cards.
The Biometric National ID Card and NIN-SIM linkage initiatives underscore the government’s dedication to building an inclusive and innovative identity management system. These efforts are positioning Sierra Leone as a progressive leader in digital transformation, paving the way for robust national development.
