ID system said to be key to digital growth

By Benadetta Chiwanda Mia: 

The ICT Association of Malawi (Ictam) has urged the government to integrate the national identity (ID) system with key digital platforms to accelerate the country’s digital transformation and boost financial inclusion.

The call comes as Malawi aims to increase access to formal financial services to 95 percent of the adult population by 2028, according to the National Strategy for Financial Inclusion III.

Currently, about 60 percent of adults lack access to formal financial services, with only 14 percent actively using such services, according to the RBM/ UNCDF 2020 Survey.

Ictam General Secretary Exile Njoka said in an interview that such integration would provide a secure foundation for identity verification, promoting access to financial services and ensuring efficient service delivery.

Njoka said the system could streamline the delivery of government services, including social welfare, healthcare and education, by linking individuals to digital platforms that ensure accountability.

He also identified artificial intelligence (AI) as a key digital trend that could transform Malawi’s economy, particularly in agriculture, healthcare and public services.

“A robust national ID system can help unbanked populations access financial services like banking and mobile money.

“The data generated through this system can also offer critical insights for policymaking and help identify underserved communities.

“In agriculture, AI can provide precise weather forecasting and pest management. In healthcare, it can improve diagnostics and patient management, while in public services it can automate processes and enhance citizen engagement,” Njoka said.

The then called for investment in AI training programmes, innovation hubs and incentives for private sector investment in AI solutions.

National Registration Bureau (NRB) Principal Secretary Mphatso Sambo requested more time before he could comment on the matter.

Meanwhile, NRB, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme, is implementing the National Registration and Identification System Project, which is expected to generate transformative benefits and improvements in service delivery, governance and economic and social inclusion.

Among the aims of the project is to provide an interface to other public and private sector systems that allow for appropriate data sharing within a legal framework that complies with international principles and standards for the Right to Privacy and Data Protection.