–set for launch in second quarter of 2024
AS the government pushes towards modernising its administrative processes, Guyana is gearing up to launch its National Electronic Identification Card (e-ID) system in the second quarter of this year, with a dedicated allocation of $783.4 million in Budget 2024 for the project.
Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, revealed during the national budget presentation, on Monday, that the process for the implementation of the e-ID commenced in March 2023, with the finalisation of the requisite policies and design currently in progress.
He disclosed that the issuance of these cards will begin in the second quarter of 2024, with $783.4 million being budgeted to continue this project.
“This ISO-certified, International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) accepted card system will allow for the issuance of resident identification and work permits, and will facilitate a more coordinated approach to public service delivery.
“The e-ID system would allow for fingerprint verification and validation of individuals so that the need for proof of address and all the audit documentation may be eliminated,” the senior minister said.
The digital ID cards will contain the bearer’s name, date and place of birth, unique identification number, sex, citizenship, facial image, fingerprint data for biometric matching, and a signature.
These cards will be considered legal proof of identity for public and private sector interactions, both in person and online, and are intended for travel.
The contract for the implementation of the e-ID cards was awarded to the German-based company Veridos Identify Solutions for $35.4 million.
The system is intended to enhance security and facilitate electronic governance. With the Digital Identity Card Bill already being passed, it mandates that citizens of Guyana 14 years and over are required to provide their identity data.
It’s important to note that the electronic ID system will not replace the ID cards issued by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).
It also builds upon the Data Protection Law which allows state agencies to collect and store citizens’ personal information in a national database.
Once established, this database will serve as a comprehensive national data bank accessible to relevant state agencies.
This law safeguards the privacy and personal data of individuals, including their right to control the use of their personal information.
These legislations align Guyana with international best practices on data protection and privacy and regulate the implementation of the e-ID system in Guyana.
