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Sierra Leone Launches First Securitized Multi-Purpose ID Card and Verification System

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On January 30th, 2023, President Julius Maada Bio officially launched Sierra Leone’s first securitized multi-purpose identification card and verification system. The president emphasized that comprehensive civil registration and vital statistics data is crucial for development planning and policy-making.

Progress and Partnerships

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has made significant progress under the leadership of its Director General and staff, with support from partners. President Bio praised the NCRA’s strong-willed diligence in making the launch a reality.

Benefits of the Biometric ID Card

The biometric, chip-based multipurpose ID card and verification system is essential for:

  • Transparent financial transactions across Sierra Leone
  • Enhanced financial inclusion and a digital economy
  • Elimination of cash hoarding
  • Better tracking of money laundering and financial fraud
  • Opportunities for biometric voting systems to reduce voter fraud

Data Protection and Management

The president noted that data protection and management measures are critical for preserving personal rights and liberties within the democracy. He emphasized the importance of putting strong data protection measures in place, which has been well-considered.

Collaboration and Commitment

The Sierra Leone Government collaborated with Constrat Systems SL Ltd on this project as part of a public-private partnership. President Bio also praised the NCRA’s comprehensive nationwide consultation and the Government of Sierra Leone’s commitment to data management.

Regional Significance

Sierra Leone has become the sixth member state to implement the ECOWAS identification card, demonstrating its commitment to free movement and integration in the region. The Resident Representative of ECOWAS in Sierra Leone, Ambassador Harouna Moussa, noted that this achievement is a significant step forward for the country.

Call to Action

Tanzila Sankoh, Sustainability and Local Economic Development Cluster Team Lead for the United Nations Development Programme, encouraged stakeholders to take responsibility for ensuring high uptake of the ID card.