Zambia’s biometric ID rollout faces significant challenges due to reliance on outdated physical records. The transition to a biometric system aims to enhance public services but encounters skepticism regarding privacy and data security. Concerns are heightened by the involvement of a foreign entity in managing sensitive information, with calls for more citizen engagement in the process to establish trust and protect civil rights.
The implementation of biometric-enabled National IDs in Zambia is fraught with challenges, originating from a reliance on physical records which hampers efficient service delivery and comprehensive citizen profiles. Despite attempts at digitization since 2008, insufficient financing and a slow shift from manual systems have led to persistent issues such as identity fraud and data mismanagement. Recent proposals for an Integrated National Registration Information System (INRIS) aim to remedy these obstacles but raise concerns over data protection and privacy given the involvement of foreign companies in managing sensitive biometric data. In March 2022, Home Affairs Minister Jack Mwiimbu acknowledged the limitations of the manual system, citing persistent problems like duplication of records. The introduction of INRIS hopes to improve accuracy in citizen registration, ensuring citizens receive unique identification numbers at birth. While this could streamline processes such as voter registration and improve governance, skepticism remains regarding data security due to the potential misuse of biometrics for surveillance, especially given the country’s limited internet penetration rate of slightly over 28%. Zambia’s healthcare, financial, and social service systems would benefit significantly from a structured biometric identification process, integrating financial wallets linked to digital National Registration Cards. However, the government’s commitment to citizen privacy must be emphasized, as transparency concerning data use and public consent is critical. With no formal communications or public debate surrounding the rollout, civil society groups have raised alarms regarding privacy breaches and the risk of increased surveillance. Despite the legal framework established with the Data Protection Act of 2021, concerns persist about the engagement of a foreign company to host national data. Safeguarding citizen data sovereignty is paramount, especially as only modest advancements in connectivity and infrastructure are seen to support an effective digital governance model. Regulation and oversight must be prioritized to ensure that biometric identification enhances service delivery without infringing on civil liberties.
The article discusses Zambia’s implementation of biometric-enabled National IDs, addressing the systemic issues resulting from the nation’s heavy reliance on physical records. This historical context highlights efforts towards digitization dating back to 2008, illustrating the persistent hurdles in launching modern identification systems, including financial constraints and public sentiment mixed with distrust regarding surveillance. Moreover, it emphasizes the legislative basis for biometric systems, while also identifying potential threats to data security posed by foreign involvement in data management.
In conclusion, Zambia’s push towards a biometric identification system is a necessary step for modernizing public service delivery, yet serious concerns about data privacy and security need to be addressed. The success of such initiatives hinges on the government’s ability to build trust through transparency and the involvement of citizens in decision-making processes. Proper safeguards must be established to ensure responsible management of biometric data, ultimately aligning with the principles of digital rights and effective governance.
Original Source: www.apc.org
