By Amin Kef (Ranger)
Sierra Leoneans are urged to seize the opportunity and secure their Biometric ID Cards as proud citizens of a nation moving towards heightened security and smoother transactions. The ongoing issuance of these cards, mandated for all citizens and non-citizens alike, carries a deadline of March 31, 2024, signaling a crucial phase in the country’s drive for enhanced security measures and simplified daily interactions.
The introduction of Securitized and Multi-purpose Biometric Identity Cards, integrated with an advanced ID Verification System, marks a significant stride towards bolstering citizen safety and streamlining transactions across the nation.
“The primary aim of this initiative is twofold: to strengthen citizen safety and facilitate local transactions,” says the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA). These Biometric ID cards, now indispensable at checkpoints nationwide, not only serve as identification but also safeguard personal information, prioritizing individual rights while granting access to vital services. Beyond mere cards, they represent a future brimming with opportunities.
To expedite the application process, citizens are encouraged to visit designated NCRA Offices and Centers nationwide. These include locations in Freetown, Bo, Kenema, Makeni, Port Loko, and others. Additionally, to cater to organizations and institutions, the NCRA has introduced corporate services tailored for entities such as Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), Foreign Missions, and Financial Institutions.
- NCRA Headquarters: 2 Walpole Street, Freetown.
- NCRA Office: 23B Off Kingharman Road, Freetown.
- NCRA Office: Kennedy Street, Freetown.
- NCRA Branch Office: 230 Lumley Road, Freetown (By the Round & About).
- NCRA Office: Waterloo along the Freetown High Way (Opposite the Police Station).
- NCRA Offices: Respective Regional Headquarter Towns of Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko.
For further information on these services, interested parties can contact the NCRA via phone at +232-33-433-333 / +232-30-500-000 / +232-60-000 / +232-78-221-812 or via EMAIL: idverification@ncra.gov.
The introduction of biometric national identity cards underscores the Government’s commitment to fostering a safer, more efficient, and accessible environment for all Sierra Leoneans, empowering individuals and organizations alike to thrive in a secure landscape. Citizens are urged to act promptly and secure their Biometric ID Cards, marking a pivotal moment in Sierra Leone’s journey towards a brighter and more secure future.
