By Bill W. Cooper
The Liberia Telecommunication Authority (LTA) and the National Identification Registry (NIR) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to implement a renewed SIM/RUIM card registration system.
The initiative is expected to streamline the registration process and ensure that all mobile users in the country are properly identified as well as enhance the security and efficiency of telecommunications in Liberia.
It can be recalled that the project was first signed between the LTA, NIR, and the country’s two major mobile networks, Lone-Star MTN and Orange Liberia, in November of 2020, ensuring that a sim card bearer of any of the GSM has a National ID Card.
However, in this year’s MOU, the two parties agreed that the services of anyone who does not take advantage of the process within the giving period will be temporarily suspended, as a means of encouraging them to update their National ID. The exercise, when commenced, is expected to run through free of charge.
Also, the LTA which is the Government’s telecommunication regulatory entity will monitor the process, while the NIR will implement the initiative, ensuring that all mobile users are in compliance.
Remarking during the signing ceremony, LTA’s acting chairperson, Abdullah Kamara said the signing of the MOU marks a pivotal moment in the country’s telecommunications landscape.
This move, he said, seeks to address the challenges posed by unregistered SIM cards, which have been linked to various criminal activities, including fraud and cybercrime among others.
According to him, the new system will require all mobile phone users to update their SIM and RUIM card registrations within six months, he revealed is crucial for national security and the integrity of the telecommunications sector.
“The SIM/RUIM Card Registration system is crucial because it will help the government fight crimes by identifying people who commit crimes as such, your SIM will be blocked after six months if you refuse to update it using your National ID Card and LTA new regulations”, he warned.
For his part, the Executive Director of the NIR, Andrew Peters, has disclosed that the benefits of having a secured National Biometric Identification System (NBIS) are aimed at creating a centralized database of citizens and residents, streamlining access to public services such as healthcare, education, and social welfare.
He said it will also enhance security and law enforcement, noting that by accurately identifying individuals, the NBIS will help law enforcement agencies to prevent and investigate crimes as well as aid in tracking down would-be criminals and managing security threats more effectively.
According to him, the NBIS will facilitate financial services by providing a reliable means of identification and ensuring that citizens can open bank accounts, access credit, and participate in formal financial systems, thereby contributing to economic growth.
He maintained, “With a unique identification number, individuals can access social benefits, subsidies, and relief programs more efficiently. This includes pensions, healthcare, and other governmental assistance.”
“The NBIS will enable digital governance by linking citizens’ data to various government platforms. Through this, online services related to taxes, licenses, and permits become more accessible. As accurate identification ensures fair and transparent elections, the NBIS helps prevent voter trucking, and election fraud, and ensures that eligible citizens can exercise their right to vote”, he intoned.
“Data also from the NBIS informs policy decisions, resource allocation, and development planning. It aids in understanding population demographics and trends”, Director Peters added.
