Digital ID rollout sparks concerns in Namibia

Eugenia Moche

The government’s plan to introduce digital identification documents has raised questions about whether citizens’ personal data will be safe and whether the public trusts government institutions enough to embrace the system.

The ministry of home affairs, immigration, safety and security confirmed earlier this year that electronic identity cards (e-IDs) will be rolled out in September 2026 under the Civil Registration and Identification Act of 2024.

The new e-IDs will store biometric and demographic information, including fingerprints and photos, and are expected to be used across public and private services.