By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) of Sierra Leone is intensifying efforts to secure identities and enhance service access nationwide. Through a broad campaign, the NCRA is urging all individuals, both citizens and non-citizens, to register for Biometric ID Cards, which come with a unique National Identification Number (NIN). These cards, available at various designated centers, are designed to streamline identity verification, prevent fraud and make accessing essential services more straightforward.
A critical component of this initiative is linking NINs to mobile phone SIM card; a Government-mandated action that must be completed between September 1 and November 30, 2024. According to the NCRA, this linkage aims to protect individuals’ identities and prevent the misuse of mobile services for illicit purposes. Those who do not link their NINs within this period may face disruptions in their mobile service, affecting their ability to make calls, send messages or carry out mobile money transactions.
The Biometric ID Card, far more than a simple ID, represents a significant advancement in securing personal information. By assigning a unique NIN to each individual, the Government can verify identity more accurately, bolstering the fight against identity theft and fraud threats that are becoming more common in the digital age.
Beyond providing a secure form of identification, the Biometric ID Card is now essential for accessing various services in Sierra Leone. Recent Government policies mandate presenting the card for activities like banking, where it serves as an extra layer of security to combat fraud. Law enforcement also relies on these cards for identity verification at checkpoints across the country, further enhancing national security.
In education, the Biometric ID Card has become a requirement for students taking national exams like the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). This requirement strengthens the examination process by verifying candidate identity, thus reducing the risk of impersonation and preserving the integrity of academic evaluations.
To ensure that all eligible individuals can obtain their Biometric ID Cards, the NCRA has established registration and collection centers nationwide, including:
– 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 (Near the Roundabout)
– NCRA Office: Waterloo, along the Freetown Highway (Opposite the Police Station)
– Regional NCRA Offices in Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko
Individuals seeking assistance or more information can contact the NCRA at +232 33 939740 or +232 79 578063, visit their website at [www.ncra.gov.sl](http://www.ncra.gov.sl), or email them at info@ncra.gov.sl. Additionally, the NCRA offers services for corporate Biometric ID Card issuance, catering to both public and private institutions.
As Sierra Leone moves toward a more secure identification system, the NIN-SIM linkage is a crucial step in protecting citizens and residents. With identity verification at the core of modern service delivery, linking NINs to SIM cards will enhance national security, reduce fraud and improve efficiency across government and private services.
The NCRA remains committed to supporting all eligible individuals in securing their identities and taking advantage of essential services. This national drive represents a pivotal effort toward a safer and more connected Sierra Leone.
