LTA, NIR And Network Operators Signed MOU to Boost Biometric Data-Base System In Liberia

MONROVIA, Oct 8, 2024- The Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), National Identification Registry (NIR) and LoneStar Cell MTN and Orange Liberia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to boost one biometric Data-Base system for citizens across the country.

Held at the LTA headquarters in Paynesville Tuesday, October 8, 2024, the MoU aims to Forster one biometric Database that will be used for citizens enrollment and verification at both LTA, NIR and network operators in the country.

Speaking at the launch, LTA Acting Chairperson Abdullah L. Kamara said the MoU aims to targets about 3.5 million people in mine months, ensuring the foundational Data-Base is fully equipped at both levels, especially the NIR. “We can’t achieve digital transformation without foundation as a country” The LTA Chair said.

Giving the importance of the MoU, the LTA Acting Chairperson added a focus check on healthcare, Assurance, police Clarence including financial records are all captured in the biometric process, nothing that it will not only focus on Sim cards.

“After this signing, there will be a free of charge ninety days process that will allow everyone to visit the GSM companies for verifications and update of sim cards. After the indicated period, service cost will be changed for the process” LTA Chairperson Abdullah L. Kamara

Chairman Kamara reaffirmed the LTA commitment to the process and vowed to work with the NIR, Network operators and even the CSA in ensuring the success of the exercise.
“The two agencies have committed to collaborate for the effective and efficient operations of the National Identification Registry”, Chairman Kamara explained.

Meanwhile, NIR Executive Director Andrew Peter said the MoU will create effective and efficient public service delivery, with an aimed to create centralized database for citizens and residents, streamlining access to public service, health care, education and social Warfare.

Peter added that the MOU will also efficiently reduce bureaucracy and ensure timely service delivery. “The MOU signed today will enhance security and law enforcement by accurately identifying individuals, which will help law enforcement officers in investigating crimes and aid in tracking down criminals and managing security threat more effectively”, he said.

The NIR Executive Director strongly believe that introducing these measures will allow citizens to open account, access credits and participate in formal financial system contributing to economic growth. He named access to social benefits with a unique identification number, that enables individual access more benefits and relief program, pension benefits among others.

For his part, Patrick Honnah, one of LTA Commissioners described the joint collaborations aa testament of the government in ensuring security measures. He urged the media to support this drive using their respective platforms in providing essential messages about the process.

The MOU will last for two years with possibility for renewal. The program brought together stakeholders of the two government agencies including the CSA Director General among others.