Ghana’s National Identification Authority is enhancing the Ghana Card’s functionality to include mobile money and banking integrations for easier financial transactions. The plan includes biometric verification to prevent identity theft and streamline access to various government services, ultimately aiding financial inclusion among Ghanaians.
The National Identification Authority (NIA) of Ghana is advancing its plans to enhance the functionality of the Ghana Card, transforming it into a multipurpose tool aimed at promoting financial inclusion and streamlining access to government services. Yayra Koku, the acting CEO of NIA, announced intentions to integrate the card with mobile money services and banking accounts, facilitating easier transactions for citizens.
Koku outlined several envisioned benefits of the Ghana Card, including seamless payments for goods and services without needing the vendor’s details, its use as a driver’s license, and the ability to apply for a passport online. These enhancements aim to eliminate the need for in-person visits to various government agencies, making service access more efficient.
He also highlighted the convenience of obtaining a replacement card by simply visiting a kiosk, paying a fee, and providing a fingerprint for immediate card issuance. This modernization is part of a broader initiative to enhance citizen services through technological collaboration with various partners.
Furthermore, the NIA emphasized the necessity of biometric verification to prevent identity theft and ensure secure identity confirmation. Institutions relying on non-biometric methods for identity verification are cautioned against these practices as they do not accurately represent an individual’s identity.
The NIA has established an Identity Verification System Platform (IVSP) to enforce biometric checks against the National Identity Register, ensuring data accuracy and accountability. To date, over 17 million Ghanaians have acquired the Ghana Card, with ongoing efforts to distribute cards to children.
The National Identification Authority of Ghana is committed to transforming the Ghana Card into a versatile tool that simplifies financial transactions and access to government services. By integrating biometric verification, the NIA aims to enhance security and accuracy in identity management, thus fostering greater public confidence in national identity systems and financial inclusion initiatives.
Original Source: www.biometricupdate.com
