STAFF WRITER
NAMIBIA says it will soon roll out a biometric electronic identification (e-ID) enabling real-time identity verification across sectors such as banking, healthcare, education, elections, and more services.
A statement released by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security (MHAISS) said the concept developed in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is a historic
milestone in Namibia’s digital transformation journey.
The e-ID initiative, which is aligned with the UNDP’s “Model Governance Framework for Digital Legal Identity, marks a bold step toward a secure, inclusive, and digitally connected society. This advanced identity card will contain embedded biometric and demographic data,
enabling real-time identity verification across sectors such as banking, healthcare, education, elections, and more,” Home Affairs ministry Executive Director and Accounting Officer Eteine Maritz said in a statement.
Maritz added that, “To foster public understanding and trust in this innovation, the Ministry will commence with a nationwide awareness campaign, beginning in the Khomas Region. As part of this campaign, the Ministry will host an interactive “Un-conference on Digital Legal Identity” on Thursday, 26 June 2025, in Windhoek.”
The concept was approved by Cabinet which paved way for the contactless chip IDs. Since then, Government has been engaged with putting the required infrastructure in place and engaging the relevant stakeholders for their input to this important initiative.
maritz said the e-ID is designed to modernise identity management and expand access to essential public
and private services.
As part of the sensetisation programme the Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, Lucia Iipumbu, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative in Namibia, Alka Bhatia, will engage directly with the public to answer any questions on the se model e-ID this month. Over 500 community members from Windhoek’s constituencies, local councillors and political leaders and administrative officials, and are expected to attend.
According to Maritz the key benefits of the e-ID:
Include enhanced security through biometric verification, reduction in identity fraud and elimination of duplicate records, impoved access to government services, especially in rural areas and efficiency in service delivery through mobile outreach.
He said the e-ID also creates a leeway for e-Government and cross-border regional mobility in S ADC.
“This digital transformation is not just about technology, it is about recognition, dignity, and opportunity for every Namibian. The e-ID will serve as a vital tool for inclusivity, empowering all citizens to access services and participate fully in civic and economic life.
As this transformative rollout begins, all Namibians are encouraged to stay informed through official awareness campaigns,” he said.
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