The Somali government is preparing to launch a national digital identification system that will integrate the country’s biometric National ID with the banking sector. This initiative is a collaboration between the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) and the Somali Bankers Association (SBA), with support from the World Bank.
The system aims to enhance the country’s financial infrastructure by reducing risks such as fraud and money laundering, while providing secure access to financial services that align with international standards.
NIRA Director General Abdiwali Tima’adde emphasized that the integration of the National ID system with banking services will be crucial in advancing Somalia’s economy. The initiative also seeks to make the registration and issuance of National IDs more accessible to the public, contributing to broader financial inclusion and digitalization efforts in the country.
Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama highlighted the importance of the National ID card in Somalia’s ongoing National Transformation Plan, noting that this collaboration is a significant step toward integrating Somalia’s economy with global financial systems. One of the key upcoming initiatives is the introduction of a Tax Identification Number linked to the National ID system, aimed at streamlining tax processes and strengthening the country’s financial infrastructure.
This development follows the launch of Somalia’s biometric National ID system in September of the previous year, marking the revival of a national identity registry after 30 years. The government’s goal is to register 15 million Somalis by the end of 2026. The system collects biometric data, including facial and fingerprint biometrics, and digitizes signatures, with NIRA leading the implementation.
Sources: The Standard, The Star
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September 2, 2024 – by The Mobile ID World Editorial Team
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