Monday August 19, 2024
by SHARON MWENDE
Abdiweli Timacadde, Director of the National Identification and Registration Authority (right), Interior Minister Ali Yusuf (centre) and a seniour UNDP official attending a consultative workshop on digital identity Image: HANDOUT
Somalia leaders held a three-day consultative workshop to establish a robust legal and infrastructural framework for the use of digital identities.
The meeting was opened by Interior Minister Ali Yusuf and brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, United Nations representatives and civil society.
The meeting aimed to architect the future of national identification in Horn of Africa country.
According to Somalia’s National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) director Abdiweli Timacadde, the authority plays a central role in the discussions and is instrumental in guiding the development of a system that meets the needs of the Somali people.
He said the authority will also ensure the process adheres to national and international standards.
Timacadde emphasised the importance of meeting in advancing the national identity system.
"This consultative meeting marks a milestone in our journey towards a robust digital identity system for our country," he said.
"By bringing together diverse stakeholders and leveraging cutting-edge technology, we are laying the foundation for a secure, efficient, and inclusive national identification framework that will empower the Somali people and strengthen our country's governance."
Timacadde commended the collaborative efforts of government and international agencies in supporting Somalia's identity infrastructure.
Participants shared in-depth reports, innovative ideas, and valuable recommendations focused on developing a modern digital identity system.
The discussions emphasized the importance of establishing a reliable framework that aligns with both national and international laws.
The use of modern technology to enhance the efficiency and security of the identity system was also reiterated to enable effective management of Somali citizens' identification.
"By facilitating the secure and reliable identification of citizens, a robust digital identity framework will underpin various government services, improve access to opportunities, and strengthen national security."
The consultative meeting is expected to be a roadmap for Somalia's digital identity journey, marking a significant step towards a more inclusive and secure future.