Rwanda's Digital ID Card Issuance Back on Track

The Ministry of ICT and Innovation (MINICT) has clarified the delays and outlined new plans for the issuance of digital Rwanda national identity cards. Initially targeted for 60% completion by 2023, the project faced obstacles due to the absence of a supporting law. With the enactment of the population registration law in June 2023, the implementation process is now in motion. The project, funded by the World Bank, involves a three-year timeframe (2022-2026), and is currently in the procurement stage for the necessary system. Actual implementation is anticipated to commence within 18 months.

Ministry of ICT and Innovation Clarifies Digital Identity Card Issuance Delays, Announces New Implementation Plans

Kigali, Rwanda - The Ministry of Information, Communication Technology, and Innovation (MINICT) has provided an explanation for the delays in the issuance of the highly anticipated digital Rwanda national identity card and outlined new plans for its commencement.

Initial Targets and Delays

The national goal was to equip at least 60% of Rwandans with the digital identity cards by 2023. However, the ministry acknowledged that this target was not met due to various factors. Consequently, no digital identity cards have been issued to date.

Partnership and Implementation

The Rwanda Digital Acceleration Project is a joint initiative between the Government of Rwanda, the World Bank, MINICT, the Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA), and the National Identification Agency (NIDA).

Yves Iradukunda, Permanent Secretary at MINICT, informed the Parliament Public Accounts Committee (PAC) that the primary obstacle to implementation was the absence of a legal framework to support the program. Since the necessary legislation has been approved, activities to commence implementation are now underway.

Legal Framework and Funding

The law governing the establishment of a national single digital identity system was enacted in June 2023.

"With the law in place and the World Bank approving the disbursement of funds for these activities, we can assure progress," stated Iradukunda.

Project Timeline and Funding

The digital component of the project has a timeframe of three years (2022-2026). Rwanda signed a $40 million financing agreement for the execution of the digital ID system, which encompasses four phases.

To date, two phases (feasibility and civil registry records) have been completed, with the final phase of core ID system and production pending.

Procurement and Implementation

Officials disclosed that the project has reached the procurement process for the required system, with tender documents released for bidders to submit their proposals.

"Actual implementation will commence after the tender is awarded to a successful bidder," said Innocent Muhizi, CEO of RISA.

"We anticipate the completion of the system within the next 18 months," he added.

Features of the Digital ID

The legislation mandates the discontinuation of the registration and issuance of the current plastic national identity cards by June 15, 2027.

Rwandans will be required to visit designated centers in the country or abroad to submit their biographic and biometric data, including a front-facing photograph, fingerprints, and an iris scan.

Upon completion of data submission, individuals will receive an SDID number or token in print or electronic form as proof of identity, as prescribed by the law.