The Southern African country joins the technological advancement trends in the region. This move aims to increase the security of people and will contribute to data management for social and economic development.

Namibia's Cabinet has given the green light to the implementation of contactless microchip identity documents. These advanced digital IDs will consolidate various national documents, marking a pivotal step in the country's technological evolution. Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Dr. Peya Mushelenga, announced this development during his customary weekly Cabinet Briefing which took place on August 15.

During an interview with Nina on NBC Digital News' Daily Roundup, Jackson Wandjiva, Executive Director of Civil Registration at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security (MHAISS), emphasized that the move will help “Provide a secure and inclusive identity management environment that will benefit the holder and the service providers (..) eliminate fraud and identity theft.”

The initiative falls under the purview of MHAISS, which has received a directive to explore the integration of diverse national documents into these digital IDs. With this revolutionary approach, Namibia aims to streamline administrative processes, enhance security measures, and provide citizens with a more convenient means of identification.

This recent Cabinet decision highlights the nation's proactive approach to technological advancement. These key developments signal the government's determination to propel the country toward a brighter and more inclusive future.

Hikmatu Bilali