By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In today’s increasingly interconnected world, the importance of obtaining a Biometric Identity Card cannot be overstated for both citizens and non-citizens residing in Sierra Leone. These cards play a crucial role in enhancing personal security, facilitating access to essential services and ensuring a streamlined process for identity verification. As the nation embraces technological advancements in identity management, the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) emphasizes that every resident should prioritize obtaining their Biometric ID Card.
The NCRA has recently announced the successful restoration of its National Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) services, marking a pivotal development in this initiative. In a public notice dated October 24, 2024, signed by Director General Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, the NCRA confirmed the completion of essential maintenance on the ABIS Engine, an integral component of the National Identification Management System (IDMS). This system is vital for biometric de-duplication and the assignment of National Identification Numbers (NIN) to new registrants.
The maintenance period, which began on October 10, 2024, temporarily suspended certain registration services. However, with this essential maintenance now concluded, the NCRA has resumed the registration and assignment of NINs for individuals aged 12 and above. This ensures that those impacted by the system upgrade can obtain their identity cards without delay.
Importantly, the NCRA clarified that other critical services, such as the issuance of identity cards, registration of minors under 12, verification and authentication of identities and updates of personal information, remained unaffected during the maintenance period. This continuity of service reflects the Authority’s unwavering commitment to seamless civil registration and identity management for all residents.
The NCRA urges all residents to take advantage of the resumed services and obtain their Biometric Identity Cards. Registration is available at multiple NCRA offices throughout the country, including:
– NCRA Headquarters, 2 Walpole Street
– NCRA Office, 23B Off Kingharman Road
– NCRA Office, Kennedy Street
– NCRA Branch Office, 230 Lumley Road (Roundabout)
– NCRA Office, Waterloo, along Freetown Highway (Opposite Police Station)
These offices, along with regional branches, are equipped to efficiently serve both public and private entities, ensuring that every resident has access to essential identity services.
One registrant, Barton Cole, recently shared his positive experience with the NCRA. After needing a national identity card for urgent clearance, he visited the King Harman Road office and was pleasantly surprised by the swift and efficient service he received. “I walked in and was directed to a desk where I gave my phone number. Within moments, all my details appeared on a screen. After confirming my information, my height was taken, and I proceeded to another room for photo verification,” Cole recounted. He completed the entire process in under 15 minutes and received a notification just three days later that his card was ready for collection. “The professionalism and efficiency of the NCRA staff were truly shocking, given the usual inefficiencies in many public services. I hope other institutions can learn from this example,” he remarked, underscoring the NCRA’s exemplary service delivery.
The rollout of biometric ID cards marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s efforts to enhance security and improve service delivery for all residents. This initiative underscores the Government’s commitment to national security, digital transformation, and the overall well-being of both citizens and non-citizens. As the NCRA expands its services, Sierra Leone is poised for a more secure and efficient future, ensuring that all residents have guaranteed access to critical services.
For more information, citizens and residents are encouraged to contact the NCRA via mobile at (+232 33 939740 / +232 79 578063), visit the NCRA’s website at [www.ncra.gov.sl](http://www.ncra.gov.sl), or send inquiries to info@ncra.gov.sl.
