In January 2025, Somalia began the process of issuing national identity cards for the first time in three decades. The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) aims to complete the registration of 1.5 crore citizens by 2026. Currently, 5,000 people are registering daily, which is planned to increase to 20,000 in the future. This initiative will help provide legal identity to citizens and improve access to public and private services.
So far, only 15% of Somalia’s population has official identity documents, while the remaining 85% are still unregistered. The new ID cards will have a unique 11-digit number for everyone, which is necessary to protect legal rights and access government services. NIRA has set up five registration centers in the Banadir region in the first phase and plans to expand its reach across the country thereafter.
Significance of the National ID Initiative in Somalia
Somalia has committed to register 1.5 million citizens by 2026, as most of the country’s population, 85%, currently lacks legal identity. This initiative will improve citizens’ access to banking, voting, and other important government services. Currently, more than five registration centers are operational, and there are plans to expand its coverage across the country.
Technological Features of the New ID Cards
Somalia’s new national identity card includes a unique 11-digit identification number for everyone. Authentication is done through advanced biometric technology, which reduces the chances of identity fraud by up to 90%. The daily registration capacity of the system is initially up to 5,000 people, which is planned to be expanded to 20,000 in the future.
Impact on Governance and Citizen Services
After gaining legal recognition, more than 10 million Somali citizens will have formal access to government services and economic opportunities. This system will further strengthen the security of the country by providing a strong and reliable identity database. In addition, it will help in improving the voter list for the next elections, thereby guaranteeing a fair electoral process.
Challenges and Future Prospects of the ID System
The lack of infrastructure is causing challenges in the registration process in Somalia, especially in rural areas where access to registration centers is less than 50%. The government is planning to deploy mobile units to increase registration coverage to 60% across the country. In the future, the integration of digital technology will facilitate seamless authentication of more than 100 institutions.
The launch of Somalia’s national identity program is a major effort to provide legal identity for its 15 million citizens. This initiative gives citizens better access to basic services, strengthens national security and creates the possibility of greater economic inclusion. Although there are access difficulties in rural areas, government projects are trying to expand the facility of registration across the country. With the advancement of technology, this system will play an important role in the governance and development of Somalia.
