The Government of Rwanda has announced that the new digital national ID project, estimated to cost over Rwf 100 billion, is set to officially begin on Tuesday, October 28, 2025.
According to the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, the new digital ID will be issued to all Rwandans, including children, and foreign residents without nationality but living in Rwanda. The upgraded ID will contain more advanced personal data, including biometric information, improving access to public services.
Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, explained that the new system will eliminate the need to physically carry the ID card.
“You will have a personal code or digital version on your mobile phone that you can present when accessing services,” she said. “Even if you forget your code or card, you can use your biometrics, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, to verify your identity.”
The Minister of Local Government, Dominique Habimana, said the new digital ID aligns with Rwanda’s vision of a technology-driven society: “This ID will make service delivery easier and help citizens keep up with the country’s technological progress. It’s a milestone that reflects how far we’ve come in building digital infrastructure.”
Minister Ingabire added that children will also receive digital IDs. For those under five years old, only a photo will be taken, and full biometric data will be collected once they turn five.
Starting November 10, 2025, citizens will be able to apply for the digital ID through Irembo, Rwanda’s e-government platform. Even Rwandans in the diaspora will be able to confirm their personal and family information online before submitting biometric data.
The Ministry of Local Government urged citizens to provide accurate and complete information during registration.
“This is not a time to alter personal details,” Minister Habimana cautioned. “It’s an opportunity to correct existing errors and ensure everyone has valid identification.”
Initially, the project will start in three districts of the Southern Province, Huye, Gisagara, and Nyanza before being rolled out nationwide.
Brenna AKARABO
RADIOTV10
