.JPG)
The government of Tanzania has allocated TZS 11.3 billion to register all children under 18, issuing them with a unique National Identification Number (NIN) valid from birth for life.
The initiative follows directives from President Samia Suluhu Hassan issued on August 10, 2023.
Minister of Home Affairs, George Simbachawene, announced the funding during an inspection visit to the National Identification Authority (NIDA) processing center.
He revealed that pilot registration will take place in Kilolo, South Unguja, and Rungwe districts, urging citizens to collect their ID cards from the centers where they registered.
.JPG)
“The national identification system for children is a critical step that will address long-standing challenges. Every citizen will now be officially recognized from birth. I also urge Tanzanians, including migrants and refugees, who previously applied for IDs using incorrect or false names, to update their information. The President has granted amnesty to allow people to correct their identity records, as wrong details have caused issues such as job loss or denial of citizenship,” Minister Simbachawene said.
He added that citizens who have not collected their IDs should visit their registration centers, noting that the NIN is valid for three years.
“The NIDA ID is now linked to health insurance cards, driving licenses, and social security schemes, simplifying access to services for citizens,” he said.
Acting Director General of NIDA, Omar Mmanga, confirmed that the authority is also registering Tanzanians living abroad.
So far, 1,465 citizens overseas have been registered. Nationwide, a total of 21,245,975 ID cards have been produced, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that all Tanzanians have official identification wherever they are.