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Sierra Leone is actively advancing its digital transformation agenda, centering its efforts around a MOSIP-based foundational identity system, according to a senior official from the country’s ID authority.
In an interview with Biometric Update at the sidelines of the recent MOSIP Connect event in Addis Ababa, Moses T.F. Vibbie, Deputy Director of ICT at the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), highlighted the critical role of the country’s leadership in this initiative. President Julius Maada Bio’s strong political commitment and NCRA Director General Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi’s leadership, who is also an ID4Africa Ambassador, are key to the project’s momentum.
“Sierra Leone’s foundational digital ID, managed by the NCRA, is pivotal to our national digital transformation,” Vibbie explained. He noted that the National ID Card or NIN is mandatory for accessing a wide array of services as stipulated by the National Civil Registration Act of 2016.
Vibbie detailed how digital ID is essential in Sierra Leone’s digital governance, linking nearly all government services to the digital ID framework. “The NIN is integrated with vital government and select private sector services, including SIM card registration, education, government payroll, employment, insurance, financial services, vehicle and driver’s license registration, healthcare, pensions, and property registrations,” he said.
Sierra Leone began its journey toward a modern ID system in 2016/2017, later partnering with MOSIP to develop an open-source ID system tailored to meet local needs and enhance citizens’ access to crucial public and private services.
Vibbie shared insights from a successful MOSIP pilot completed in February 2024, which verified the platform’s adaptability and suitability for Sierra Leone’s requirements. “Opting for a MOSIP-based system aligns with our commitment to open-source solutions and Digital Public Goods, allowing us flexibility and independence from proprietary systems,” he said.
Enrollment has been robust, with over 90% of the population now registered. To further drive adoption, the NCRA recently extended the deadline for acquiring new digital ID cards to June 28, 2024, to ensure everyone can exercise their right to obtain an ID.
The NCRA’s dedication under Massaquoi’s direction is clear as the agency continues to work closely with the MOSIP team to implement the digital ID system progressively, taking advantage of its modular design to address specific needs over time.
Vibbie also emphasized the importance of supporting the digital ID initiative with legal reforms, public awareness campaigns, and partnerships to enhance civil registration and vital statistics systems.
Reflecting on the MOSIP Connect 2024 event, Vibbie expressed enthusiasm about the learning and networking opportunities it provided. “The event was a platform for sharing experiences, learning about new trends in digital ID, and exploring collaboration opportunities with other stakeholders,” he stated.
As Sierra Leone continues to prioritize its CRVS and identity system, the NCRA is committed to leveraging digital ID to enhance service delivery, improve security, and support the country’s broader digital transformation goals.
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