Prime Minister Barre Inaugurates Historic Somali National ID

Prime Minister Hamza Barre officially launched the groundbreaking Somali National ID Conference in Mogadishu on Saturday, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s journey towards a robust identification system.

During the inaugural event, Prime Minister Hamza underscored the transformative potential of the newly introduced biometric ID system. He emphasized that this system would not only unlock numerous opportunities for citizens but also foster an environment conducive to national cohesion.

Abdiwali Abdulle, Director of the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA), delivered a keynote address at the conference, stressing that the National ID system transcends being a mere card; it embodies trust, security, and progress for the nation.

“Our presentation provides a comprehensive overview of the National ID system, encompassing identification systems, technological readiness, governance, and legal frameworks,” Abdulle stated. “It offers a holistic perspective on our work, highlighting how the system enhances social services, addresses grievances, and prioritizes data privacy. Our goal is to establish a secure and efficient national identification system.”

Prime Minister Hamza emphasized the critical role of such a system in safeguarding citizens’ rights, encompassing security, service delivery, democracy, elections, economic development, and social cohesion, echoing sentiments expressed earlier in the week on the occasion of the International Day of Democracy.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was issued his ID card as part of the new national ID issuance rollout in the country. The President praised the initiative as a significant milestone in Somalia’s state-building process, highlighting its role in bolstering security and addressing other critical national priorities.

The conference served as a vital platform for stakeholders to deliberate on the pivotal role of the National ID system in shaping Somalia’s future, fostering trust among citizens, and promoting security and development.