Somali citizens without a national ID will soon be unable to access public services, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre announced during a formal event in Mogadishu on Monday. The new mandate is part of a broader national push to modernize governance, strengthen security, and rebuild trust in public institutions.
The announcement came during the official rollout of Somalia’s national ID system, which is now being integrated into all government services.
A New Era of Identification in Somalia
Speaking at the launch event, PM Barre said, “All government agencies and those that offer services are hereby ordered not to render any services without a national ID card.”
He stressed that no country can operate without proper identification systems. “There is nowhere in the world where people are served without proof of ID. This contributes to political and economic development and will help the Somali public to live in peace as it also is linked to security,” he said.
The move aligns Somalia with global practices where citizens must present valid IDs to access services like healthcare, education, banking, and voting.
National ID System Now Operational Across Somalia
The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) is now issuing ID cards across the country. This effort comes after years of delays caused by political instability and conflict.
The new ID system is part of a larger reform agenda aimed at rebuilding Somalia’s administrative infrastructure and improving service delivery.
NIRA’s director said the program has already begun registering citizens in both urban and rural areas. The agency is using digital platforms to streamline the registration process and ensure quick turnaround times for issuing ID cards.
Improving Public Services and Strengthening Security
The Somali government believes the national ID will bring numerous benefits. It will not only improve service delivery but also enhance national security. Authorities say the system will help verify individual identities, reduce fraud, and prevent criminal infiltration.
PM Barre emphasized, “We have today moved towards a government that knows its people, whose borders are secure, and which reaches economic development and self-sufficiency to be at par with the rest of the world.”
He added that identification is a key element of effective governance. “It enables competent agencies to serve people and provide quality services,” he said.
Data Protection Measures in Place
Amid concerns about personal data safety, PM Barre reassured the public that data protection laws are now active. He said the government has implemented policies that ensure the safe handling of citizens’ personal information.
“We are committed to protecting your data and registering everyone. Digital identification is critical for Somalia’s progress,” the prime minister said.
The data protection framework aligns with global standards and is designed to safeguard information from misuse, leaks, or cyber threats.
Moving Toward Digital Government
The national ID rollout is part of a broader digitization initiative. The Somali government is working to modernize state institutions by embracing digital tools and platforms.
Officials say this transformation will eventually allow citizens to access services from their homes, reducing the need for physical visits to government offices.
“This is just the beginning,” said a Ministry of Interior official. “As we digitize more services, Somalis will soon be able to apply for jobs, pay taxes, and access healthcare online—all linked to their national ID.”
Historical Context: A Nation Rebuilding
Somalia has been rebuilding from decades of civil war and political instability. Without a centralized ID system, citizens often struggled to access essential services or prove their identity.
This initiative marks a turning point. It shows Somalia’s renewed effort to stabilize, organize, and connect its people with a trusted government.
International partners, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), have expressed support for Somalia’s efforts to build modern institutions. A UNDP representative said, “A secure and inclusive ID system is a foundational step for any country seeking to offer fair, transparent, and accountable services.”
What Citizens Need to Know
To register for the national ID, citizens must visit designated registration centers with supporting documents such as birth certificates or other forms of local verification. Mobile teams are also being deployed to reach remote areas.
The government urges all citizens to register as soon as possible. Without a national ID, individuals will not be able to:
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Apply for government jobs
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Receive public healthcare
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Access social protection programs
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Vote in elections
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Open a bank account
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Enroll in public education institutions
The Somali government’s new policy on national IDs is a major step toward building a stable and efficient state. By requiring proof of identity for public services, Somalia aims to enhance security, improve service delivery, and create a stronger connection between citizens and their government.
As the system rolls out nationwide, the government promises transparency, speed, and respect for privacy. The people of Somalia are now being called upon to take this crucial step in helping their country move forward.
