Mauritius has launched a Mobile ID system in partnership with Thales, making it the first African country to deploy a digital ID wallet that meets ISO standards. The initiative aims to enhance access to government services via a smartphone application. Users will employ biometric methods for security and personal identification. The project supports the nation’s strategy to become fully digitally connected by 2030.
Mauritius has taken a significant step towards digital transformation by launching the Mobile ID system, in collaboration with Thales. This initiative aims to enhance the accessibility of government services through modern digital infrastructure. Minister of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation, Darsanand Balgobin announced that, with the integration of Mobile ID within the MWA digital wallet application, Mauritius becomes the first African nation to implement a digital ID wallet adhering to ISO standards. This application will enable citizens to utilize a digital identity card for various administrative tasks, compatible with both Android and iOS devices. To initiate their digital wallet, users are required to authenticate their identity using biometric methods such as facial recognition or fingerprint scanning. The app requires users to take photos of their ID card, both front and back, along with a personal selfie. Subsequently, a digital version of their ID will be created along with a QR code for verification purposes. This initiative is a vital component of Mauritius’s smart city strategy and promotes innovation across diverse sectors, such as tourism, healthcare, and education. The Mobile ID platform is expected to be launched shortly, aligning with the government’s objective of a comprehensive digital empowerment strategy by 2030. Facilitating citizen access to essential services like healthcare, banking, and public services through smartphones, the Mobile ID and wallet system bolsters the government’s push for enhanced e-government initiatives and greater digital inclusion. Emphasizing security and ease of use, the digital ID wallet employs biometric technology to protect user information. Thales will spearhead the rollout of this secure system in partnership with local authorities. The project aims to provide Mauritian citizens with a streamlined way to interact with both public and private service entities. With an impressive track record in e-government practices, Mauritius sets a standard for its peers in Africa, achieving high connectivity levels with mobile penetration at 151% and broadband penetration at 87% as of 2022. The UN E-Government Development Index reflects this success, ranking Mauritius among the top nations in Africa for e-government services.
The launch of the Mobile ID wallet in Mauritius represents a notable advancement in the country’s digital ecosystem, characterized by a focus on enhancing governmental service accessibility through technology. Digital IDs have gained traction globally as a means to streamline citizen interactions with public administrations, improve security, and foster inclusivity. As part of a broader effort, Mauritius positions itself as a leader in the implementation of digital infrastructures in Africa, aligning with international standards for security and usability. This move also complements ongoing initiatives to upgrade public services and promote economic growth through digital channels, targeting a fully connected society by 2030.
In conclusion, the introduction of the Mobile ID system in Mauritius, developed in partnership with Thales, marks a pivotal advancement towards digital integration in governance. This initiative significantly improves access to essential services and demonstrates commitment to ISO standards in digital identity management. By employing biometric authentication and leveraging mobile technology, Mauritius is positioning itself as a frontrunner in Africa’s digital landscape with the aim of achieving comprehensive connectivity and digital empowerment by 2030.
Original Source: www.biometricupdate.com
