Nida faces challenges in ID card distribution amidst concerns of fraud

Dar es Salaam. Twenty-five days have passed since Innocent Bashungwa, the minister for Home Affairs, instructed the National Identification Authority (Nida) to finalise the distribution of 1.2 million national IDs within 60 days.

However, Nida is encountering significant challenges related to fraudulent identities.

On January 10, 2025, Nida’s Director General, Mr James Kaji, informed the visiting deputy minister for Home Affairs, Daniel Sillo, that 600,000 individuals had been identified as being involved in fraudulent activities using false names.

“We must adhere to the correct procedures by verifying names. Some individuals have studied or worked under different names from those they now use, and those found using fraudulent names wish to revert to their real names,” Mr Kaji told journalists after visiting the authority’s data processing centre in Dar es Salaam.

“The challenge arises because fingerprints are linked to the initial name, which complicates the issue of false identities,” he added.

However, Mr Kaji also noted that since introducing a new system that sends text notifications to individuals whose IDs are ready, they have reached 400,000 people across 87 out of 153 districts by January 8, 2025.

“In response to complaints regarding ID availability, we have collected IDs from ward offices and sent text messages to everyone with a NIDA number. We are confident that by January 31, 2025, we will have distributed all IDs as instructed,” he affirmed.

Furthermore, Mr Kaji urged Tanzanians to register for a national ID as soon as they turn 18 to avoid delays during high-demand periods.

“We have experienced significant congestion, particularly during job recruitment drives and when students require IDs for university admissions,” he noted.

He encouraged citizens to report any issues promptly to ensure swift resolutions.

“Those whose IDs have expired should visit their nearest NIDA office for free assistance,” he added.

Deputy minister Sillo expressed satisfaction with Nida’s progress, noting that the production and distribution of IDs are now proceeding at the required pace.

“Two years ago, there were considerable challenges in issuing IDs. However, the government allocated Sh42.5 billion to ensure that everyone who registered and received a number would also receive their IDs,” he said.

According to Mr Sillo, since September 2024, production has ramped up significantly.

“From September 2024 to date (January 10, 2025), approximately 20 million IDs have been distributed to Tanzanians,” he revealed.

He also urged Tanzanians to collect their IDs promptly after receiving the notification and advised the public to ensure their details are registered accurately to avoid future complications.