The National Identification Authority (NIDA) has intensified efforts to address the backlog of uncollected National Identification Cards (IDs), notifying citizens via SMS to collect their IDs from district NIDA offices.
This follows an extensive distribution exercise that saw IDs sent to local offices at the ward, village, and street levels, where many remain unclaimed.
In a statement signed by NIDA Director General James W. Kaji, the authority emphasized the importance of timely collection, noting that failure to collect IDs within one month of receiving the SMS will result in the deactivation of the individual’s National Identification Number (NIN).
“Those who fail to collect their IDs within the specified period will have their National Identification Number (NIN) deactivated after one month,” the statement reads.
The notification process via SMS aims to ensure that citizens are informed of the specific district office where their IDs are located.
According to the statement, the move to centralize ID collection at district offices comes after many IDs were left unclaimed in local offices, causing operational inefficiencies and delays in service delivery.
Despite the convenience of SMS notifications, this approach poses challenges for individuals living in rural or remote areas.
The transfer of IDs to district offices may increase travel costs and logistical difficulties for these citizens. NIDA, however, remains firm in its directive, urging all unregistered citizens to act promptly.
The uncollected IDs issue also raises broader concerns about public awareness and accessibility.
While NIDA has made significant strides in its production and distribution processes, the statement acknowledges the low collection rate as a major hindrance to achieving universal access to National IDs.
This challenge, if unaddressed, could disrupt access to critical services such as banking, healthcare, and government programs, all of which require an active NIN.
NIDA’s statement underscores its commitment to improving public service delivery and ensuring inclusivity. “We are committed to ensuring that citizens receive their National Identification Cards to facilitate their access to essential services,” Kaji stated, calling for cooperation from all affected individuals.
The National ID system is a cornerstone of Tanzania’s digitization efforts and public service reforms. As reliance on NINs grows in both government and private-sector transactions, ensuring all citizens have access to their IDs is a critical step toward building an inclusive and efficient service delivery system.
Citizens are urged to heed the SMS notifications and visit their respective district offices promptly. Failure to do so risks significant disruptions to daily activities and access to essential services.
Meanwhile, NIDA is encouraged to consider additional strategies, such as mobile ID distribution units and enhanced outreach programs, to address the barriers faced by those in remote areas.
For now, the onus lies on citizens to take immediate action and on NIDA to ensure its processes remain citizen-friendly and effective.
“We call on all citizens to cooperate fully to avoid unnecessary inconveniences and ensure uninterrupted access to essential services,” he said in the statement.