NIA to distribute 484,000 free Ghana Cards to first-time applicants
The National Identification Authority (NIA) has announced its intent to distribute some 484,000 Ghana Cards to first-time applicants aged 15 and above, marking a significant stride in bolstering the nation’s digital identity ecosystem. Commencing from August 28, 2023, this laudable initiative aims to facilitate inclusion and streamline governmental processes through the integration of a comprehensive identification system.
According to the Chief Executive Officer of the NIA, Professor Kenneth Attafuah, the issuance process will be done in two distinct phases, each tailored to maximize efficiency and outreach. The preliminary phase, spanning from August 28 to September 8, 2023, will cater exclusively to public sector workers on the government payroll who are yet to acquire their Ghana Cards. The second phase, slated to commence on September 11, 2023, extends its ambit to encompass all eligible individuals aged 15 and above, unifying a broad demographic under the aegis of this transformative initiative.
Amidst the distribution of these new cards, the NIA has identified eight out of its 16 Regional Offices, as well as all 276 District Offices across the nation, as operational hubs for this pivotal undertaking. This tactical selection is driven by the need to ensure accessibility and efficient service provision to citizens throughout the nation.
However, it is important to note that the eight exempted regional offices operate the NIA’s Premium Registration Service, necessitating their exclusion from the current process. These offices, including centers in Kumasi, Sunyani, Techiman, Koforidua, Tamale, Ho, Takoradi, and Sefwi Wiawso, uphold an elevated service standard that demands their engagement in a distinct capacity.
The impetus behind this phase of issuance stems from the collaboration between the NIA and its technical partners, Identity Management Systems II Limited (IMS II), and CalBank PLC, catalyzed by a progressive initiative from the Ministry of Finance.
A noteworthy facet of the initial phase hinges on its restriction to public sector workers on the government payroll. This stratification is rooted in a comprehensive strategy to eliminate ghost names from the government payroll, a key concern highlighted by Ghana’s Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. By integrating the Ghana Card into the digital salary payment system, the Controller and Accountant-General aims to curtail illicit payments, making the process more accountable and transparent.
In tandem with the issuance of the Ghana Card, public sector workers are mandated to present their previous month’s payslip, a measure aimed at ensuring uniformity and reducing discrepancies. This meticulous approach seeks to cleanse the government payroll of erroneous entries and cultivate fiscal prudence.
Moreover, the NIA underscores the importance of mandatory documents during the registration process. Authentic birth certificates, valid Ghanaian passports, or certificates of acquired citizenship/naturalization are pivotal prerequisites. However, in the event of unavailability, the inclusion of a relative or two individuals possessing a Ghana Card to vouch for the applicant is permitted, thereby ensuring a comprehensive approach to verification.
As Phase One sets the tone for this ambitious endeavor, it is imperative to highlight its exemption from services related to lost, stolen, or damaged Ghana Cards, and other rectifications. Phase Two, commencing on September 11, 2023, will encompass these vital aspects, offering a holistic platform for Ghana’s citizens to engage with the NIA.
The NIA’s resolute step toward digital inclusivity through the issuance of Ghana Cards is poised to redefine the nation’s identity landscape. As the Ghana Card becomes the quintessential instrument for commercial transactions and accessing an array of public and private services, this initiative underscores Ghana’s commitment to technological progress and citizen-centric governance.
