(05-05-23) MOGADISHU – The Ministry of Interior, Federal Affairs and Reconciliation of the Federal Republic of Somalia announced on Friday that they will soon launch a project to issue identity cards to the nation’s citizens. The project is aimed at providing a unified system of public identification for the Somali people, with the goal of fostering increased cooperation and development within the country and with its neighbours.
Minister Ahmed Macalin Fiqi stated that the public identification project is new for Somalia, and urged every citizen to actively participate in its implementation. “In the coming times, efforts will be made to implement the public identification project, especially the issuance of national identification cards, which opens up the country and neighbouring countries,” he said.
The manager of the Public Registration and National Identity Agency further explained that the process of national identity registration is designed to collect the least amount of information necessary to identify an individual. This approach aims to balance the need for accurate identification with the protection of citizens’ privacy.
The introduction of a unified identification system is expected to streamline government services, facilitate access to social benefits, and enhance security measures in the country. Additionally, the project has the potential to improve regional cooperation by facilitating cross-border movement and economic activity between Somalia and its neighbouring countries.
Minister Fiqi expressed optimism about the project’s potential impact, emphasizing its role in the ongoing process of national reconciliation and development. “The public identification project is a crucial step in ensuring that every Somali citizen has access to basic services and rights, and it will play a pivotal role in the ongoing efforts to strengthen our nation,” he said.
As the project moves forward, the Ministry of Internal Affairs will work closely with local and regional authorities, as well as international partners, to ensure its successful implementation.
