The National Identification Agency (NIDA) has announced the initial trial phase for issuing the new digital ID cards will begin next month in July. The agency also highlighted the differences between the new ID and the current one, noting that the new version will be issued to everyone starting from birth.
The agency’s management stated that the infrastructure needed to produce these new digital IDs is already 90% complete, making it possible to begin the trail next month.
NIDA Director General, Josephine Mukesha, explained that the digital ID will contain a person’s personal information as well as their biometric data.
The new digital national ID will be available in three forms: a physical card, a numeric code or a substitute number. Unlike the current ID, which is issued from age 16, The new ID will be given from birth. Eligibility has expanded to include migrants, abandoned children and short-term foreign visitors, in addition to citizens, long-term residents and refugees.
NIDA Director General Josephine Mukesha highlighted a key difference: “Until now, we issued ID cards to individuals aged 16 and above, but with this digital ID, we will issue it from birth.”
The new ID will no longer display personal details like gender, birth year or nationality. Instead, it will have a random unique identifier that doesn’t reveal any information about the holder. The system to manage and verify these IDs is nearly complete, with testing underway and equipment being prepared. The trial begins in July and full issuance starts in August, this year.
Brenna AKARABO/Intern
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