By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In order to enhance personal security, facilitate access to public services and strengthen national identity infrastructure, the issuance of Biometric National Identity Cards to citizens and non-citizens is currently underway across Sierra Leone.
These state-of-the-art cards, equipped with advanced features including a chip embedded with biometric data, have become essential documentation for both citizens and non-citizens. The initiative, led by the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), enables holders to secure multi-purpose identification forms that provide seamless access to Government facilities, financial services and other essential transactions.
Emphasizing security and accessibility, the Biometric National Identity Cards are revolutionizing identity verification processes and bolstering the country’s overall security framework. A key milestone in this initiative is the NCRA’s mandate for the use of National Identification Numbers (NIN) for pupils in public examination classes, highlighting the growing significance of these identity cards in the education sector.
These cards are set to play a crucial role in verifying identities and facilitating remote Know-Your-Customer (KYC) checks in the financial sector, thus enhancing efforts to combat fraud and promote financial inclusion. Recognizing the importance of this initiative, the NCRA is urging Sierra Leoneans and non-citizens to prioritize obtaining their Biometric ID Cards, citing their role in personal security, national development and access to essential services.
The NCRA emphasizes the statutory obligation and unique NIN as pivotal security elements, urging citizens to fulfill their civil responsibility by acquiring these cards.
To facilitate the application process, the NCRA established specific offices and designated centers across Sierra Leone, strategically located for easy accessibility.
Additionally, the NCRA is offering specialized corporate services tailored for organizations and institutions, enhancing accessibility and efficiency. The designated centers and offices include:
- 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: Regional Headquarter Towns of Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko
For detailed information on these services, interested parties can contact the NCRA at +232-33-433-333, +232-30-500-000, +232-60-000, +232-78-221-812, or via email at idverification@ncra.gov.
The issuance of Biometric National Identity Cards marks a transformative step in fortifying Sierra Leone’s identity infrastructure and enhancing public service accessibility, reflecting a commitment to national security and development.
