Sierra Leone commits to digital IDs as the cornerstone of its digital transition

Sierra Leone is currently in the midst of a comprehensive digital transformation journey, with the foundational identity system playing a crucial role in this initiative, as noted by a representative from the country’s ID authority.

The country has committed to advancing its digital efforts by implementing a digital ID system powered by the Bengaluru-based nonprofit organization, the Modular Open Source Identity Platform (MOSIP). The goal is to develop and test a national digital ID system using the open-source modules provided by MOSIP.

In an interview with Biometric Update, Moses T.F. Vibbie, the Deputy Director of ICT at the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA), highlighted that the pilot project is an important step in understanding the functionalities of the MOSIP ID Platform. This initiative will also set the stage for potential adoption and integration of modules into Sierra Leone’s existing infrastructure, which introduced its first secure ID last year.

The identity system based on MOSIP provides flexibility using open-source solutions and prioritizes data and identity security. Led by President Julius Maada Bio as part of Sierra Leone’s digital transformation plan, this project aims to enhance service accessibility by requiring digital IDs for government and key private sector services. From SIM card registration to healthcare access and property registration, the integrated digital ID system promises to transform citizen-state interactions, enhancing efficiency and transparency.