Tanzania and Malawi implement national identity system reforms

Tanzania and Malawi are implementing significant changes to their national identification systems. In Tanzania, Prime Minister Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba has directed the National Identification Authority (NIDA) to develop a legal mechanism, including potential penalties, for citizens who fail to collect their processed identity cards. This follows reports that over two million documents remain uncollected, creating a financial burden for the government.

NIDA reports that out of approximately 21.5 million cards produced, over two million remain at their offices. The Prime Minister emphasized that these cards are critical infrastructure for accessing banking, employment, and government services, and urged NIDA to integrate more deeply with institutions to curb fraud.

In Malawi, the Minister of Homeland Security, Peter Mukhito, announced that national identity cards will no longer carry an expiry date. This change was introduced during the launch of the National Registration Bureau’s Mzika Digital ID Wallet in Lilongwe. The digital wallet aims to support the country’s digital transformation by providing a more convenient way to access identification services, though officials noted the importance of ensuring digital inclusion for those without internet or smartphone access.