Enabel has announced a tender for biometric registration kits in the DRC, requiring high-quality hardware and software for public identification systems. Bidders must have significant experience, with proposals due by January 28, 2025. The project aligns with UN goals for universal identification by 2030, emphasizing cost-effectiveness and innovative solutions in selection criteria, and aims to enhance the existing national database with biometric data.
The Belgian Development Agency Enabel has launched a tender for biometric registration and identification systems designed for a public institution in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This contract encompasses the supply and installation of computing equipment, including ten servers—five of which are intended for disaster recovery—and various biometric scanners delivered in three distinct lots. Key components of this project include biometric registration kits, featuring advanced hardware and software that will enable the integration of fingerprint, face, and signature data into the DRC’s ongoing identification database.
The biometric scanners must operate at a minimum of 500 DPI and comply with the FBI’s Appendix F image quality standards. Additionally, these systems need to effectively recognize previously registered individuals while being interoperable with numerous biometric sensors. Specific technical requirements are detailed in the tender documentation, and proponents are required to submit their proposals by January 28, 2025. The anticipated contract start date is February 17, 2025, lasting for 18 months.
Eligible bidders must demonstrate a minimum of five years’ experience in server implementations, Windows server management, and backup system installations. Furthermore, they should possess similar experience in deploying biometric systems on a large scale, such as for population registration and access control applications. The evaluation of proposals will place significant emphasis on cost, but factors such as hardware scalability and innovative enhancements will also influence the selection process, especially for the server component.
Enabel is facilitating this procurement to support the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 16.9, which aims for universal identity registration by 2030. This initiative follows the DRC’s recent move to partner with Trident, a Singapore-based IT services management company, to develop a national digital government system and a cancellation of an earlier contract with Afritech for a national ID system using Idemia’s services.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is implementing biometric technologies to enhance its identification systems and administrative processes. Biometrics offers a reliable method for registering individuals, promoting security, and improving governance. This tender process symbolizes a commitment to modernizing the country’s identification infrastructure aligned with international standards and developmental goals. It also signifies an effort to overcome past setbacks in establishing comprehensive identification systems.
In conclusion, the tender for biometric registration kits and systems in the DRC signifies a critical step toward advancing the country’s digital identity framework. With specific requirements ensuring high-quality standards and interoperability, the initiative seeks qualified bidders to contribute to this development, while supporting broader international goals for universal identification. Enabel’s involvement highlights the importance of regulatory compliance and technological advancement in public administrative functions.
Original Source: www.biometricupdate.com
