In a groundbreaking move, Ghana’s Vice President, Mahamudu Bawumia, announced the launch of digital ID numbers, known as Ghana Card numbers, for newborns beginning next month. This momentous initiative comes as the integration of databases between the Births and Deaths Registry, the National Identification Authority (NIA), and the Ghana Health Service (GHS) has been successfully completed. The development aims to streamline civil registration and enhance digitalization efforts in the country.
Successful Trial Run and Transformational Impact
During a recent trial on July 21, a test issuance of ID numbers to newborns was conducted, and the outcome was highly successful. Hence, from the coming month, all babies born in Ghana will be granted the Ghana Card number and their Birth Certificate Identification number simultaneously when taken for the Weigh-In process. The seamless integration of the databases allows for this simultaneous issuance, marking a transformative step in the nation’s identification system.
Lifetime ID Numbers for Newborns
The Ghana Card numbers assigned to newborns will remain valid throughout their lives. However, physical cards containing their biometrics will only be issued when they reach the legal age, currently set at 18 years. This decision is taken to ensure the complete development of biometric features before issuing the physical cards.
Vice President Bawumia emphasized the significance of this move, aligning it with the government’s broader digitalization agenda aimed at positioning the country to fully embrace the Fourth Industrial Revolution. By introducing digital ID numbers for newborns, Ghana is taking a remarkable leap towards a more technologically advanced and efficient identification system.
The Ghana Card is rapidly gaining prominence as the primary proof of identity among Ghanaians. Additionally, the Ghana Election Commission is considering making it the sole ID for voter registration, further enhancing its significance in the country.
Rwanda’s Similar Ambitions
Ghana is not the only country in Africa with aspirations to provide digital ID numbers to newborns. Rwanda is among the countries aiming to undertake a similar initiative, highlighting the growing importance of digital identification systems in the region.
The introduction of digital ID numbers for newborns in Ghana marks a groundbreaking step towards enhancing the country’s identification infrastructure. This move aligns with the broader digitalization goals of the government and showcases Ghana’s commitment to embracing technological advancements.
