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Namibia Rolls Out Biometric ID Cards for Refugees

Providing Dignity and Belonging through Identity Documents

In a significant development, Namibia has officially launched the issuance of biometric identity cards for refugees in the country. This move aims to provide thousands of forcibly displaced persons with access to vital services and enhance their dignity and belonging within society.

Background

  • Namibia is home to 6,351 refugees and asylum seekers from various countries, including Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe.
  • The country’s Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security Lucia Witbooi emphasized the government’s commitment to the wellbeing of refugees.

Issuance of Biometric ID Cards

  • The “Guest of Africa Identity Cards” will be issued to facilitate access to essential services for refugees living in Namibia.
  • This initiative reflects the country’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by forcibly displaced persons and promoting their inclusion in the community.

Collaboration with International Agencies

  • The UN Refugees Agency is providing vital supplies such as drugs, food, and personal effects to the refugees.
  • The agency’s collaboration with Namibia’s government demonstrates its support for the country’s efforts to integrate refugees into society.

Regional Developments

  • Several African countries have implemented similar initiatives to include refugees, asylum seekers, and other forcibly displaced persons into their legal and digital identity systems.
  • Countries like Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, and Cameroon have launched programs to issue biometric ID cards to refugees.

Ongoing Registration Campaigns

  • Namibia’s Ministry of Home Affairs is collaborating with UNICEF to provide legal identity documents such as birth certificates to children.
  • The government has also launched a registration campaign for national identity documents in the Omusati Region, which will run until July 2.

Conclusion

The rollout of biometric ID cards for refugees in Namibia is a significant step towards providing them with access to essential services and enhancing their dignity and belonging within society.