Somalia has taken a major step towards modernizing its administrative infrastructure with the official launch of its National ID card printing process. This new initiative, spearheaded by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA), marks a key milestone in creating a comprehensive and secure national identity system. The launch is expected to significantly enhance access to vital services, safeguard fundamental rights, and foster greater national unity.
At a ceremony held to commemorate the launch, Ali Yusuf Ali (Ali Hosh), Minister of Interior, Federal Affairs, and Reconciliation, Deputy Minister Abdihakim Hassan Ashkir received the first printed ID cards, symbolizing the beginning of this important national undertaking. The Minister expressed gratitude for the achievements made by NIRA, noting that the introduction of the ID cards would provide Somali citizens with a reliable and standardized means of identification.
“This marks a new chapter in the journey toward building a strong, secure, and inclusive national identity system for our people,” said Minister Ali Hosh during the event. “The Somali government remains fully committed to improving access to essential services, and this ID card initiative will play a crucial role in achieving that goal.”
NIRA Director-General Abdiwali Ali Abdulle (Timacadde) also took the opportunity to thank the Somali public for their patience and understanding throughout the process. He acknowledged that delays had occurred but assured citizens that the wait was necessary to ensure the highest standards of technology and materials were in place for the ID card production.
“We are pleased to announce that the state-of-the-art equipment and high-quality materials required for the National ID card system have been secured, and this has allowed us to begin printing the cards. We appreciate the continued support of the Somali people as we work to make this important service available to everyone,” said Timacadde.
As part of the distribution process, NIRA has confirmed that citizens who have already registered for the ID card will be notified via SMS once their cards are ready for collection. These notifications will include the precise location and time details, ensuring that the process remains smooth and efficient.
NIRA also emphasized its commitment to expanding the National Identification System across the entire country. Following the opening of its regional office in Baidoa in South West State late last year, the agency plans to roll out additional registration centers in other federal member states in the coming months. This expansion will help ensure that all Somali citizens can access the ID card service regardless of their location.
“Having a reliable and accessible system in place is critical for the proper functioning of our government and the country as a whole,” said NIRA’s spokesperson. “We encourage all Somali citizens to register and collect their ID cards, which will not only streamline administrative processes but also provide them with the security of having recognized and verifiable identification.”
This historic step toward a unified national identity system is poised to transform how Somali citizens interact with government services and access essential rights, including healthcare, education, and voting. As Somalia continues to develop and modernize, the establishment of a robust and secure national identity framework is seen as a crucial element in strengthening the country’s governance and public service systems.
With the successful launch of the ID card printing process, Somalia moves closer to ensuring that all its citizens are recognized, protected, and able to fully participate in the nation’s progress.
