The Office of The Prime Minister of the Federal Government of Somalia has issued a directive requiring all governmental and private institutions to integrate the National Identification System into the provision of essential services.
Following the directive, the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has established key partnerships and rolled out measures that will soon ensure every Somali citizen and resident can access essential services more easily, efficiently, and securely through the use of a National Identity card. This initiative represents a major milestone towards advancing civil identification and identification in Somalia.
The new National identification framework is poised to significantly streamline access to essential services including banking, business registration, and access to education, healthcare and social protection, among other important services.
Enhanced Access to Banking Services
In a press release by the Central Bank of Somalia (CBS), together with Somali Bankers Association, announced that all individuals seeking to open or renew bank accounts must present a valid National ID card. This new requirement will strengthen the transparency of the financial system.
An official from the Central Bank of Somalia said, “These measures represent a critical step toward strengthening financial integrity, preventing identity fraud, and ensuring broader access to secure and reliable banking services.” Ultimately, the new development is expected to enhance transparency and integrity within the country’s banking and financial systems.
The revolutionary electronic Know Your Customer (e-KYC) system will also streamline the process of opening bank accounts, including enrollment in mobile banking services by enabling customers to verify their identity digitally, without need for any physical paperwork. Moreover, the e-KYC platform will promote cross-sector collaboration, ensuring smoother, more efficient operations and delivering greater convenience for individuals and businesses at a national level.
NIRA’s System to Improve Business registration and operations
On the other hand, the Ministry of Trade and Industry of the Federal Government of Somalia has announced that all public services should be tied to the National ID card issued by the National Registration and Identification Authority (NIRA).
In a press release early this month, Ministry officials praised the integration of the National ID with e-KYC system, terming it a welcome and timely move that will enhance efficiency in business management, and contribute to the overall growth of the national economy. Officials praised the use of the National ID for all business-related procedures, including opening businesses, registering company or trademarks, and renewal of new businesses, pointing out that the new development will significantly transform business operations in the whole of Somalia.
A Boost to Air Safety
Furthermore, a new directive beginning September 1, 2025, will require all applicants of Somalia passports to present a National Identity card, while those flying local routes within Somalia must provide their National Identity cards.
An Immigration official stated that by ensuring only authorized individuals can access secure areas or board flights, these measures will significantly strengthen overall airport safety, and enable the Immigration and Citizenship Department to enhance security across all airports.
The new requirement will assist authorities in identifying, tracking, and preventing potentially dangerous individuals, including militant groups from accessing airport facilities. Officials concertedly agreed that “Time has come for Somalia to align with international laws and regulations on airport management and safety, a move that will foster stronger international cooperation.”
ID to Improve Access to Education
Elsewhere in Mogadishu, another directive issued by Minister of Education, Farah Sheikh Abdulkadir following a consultative meeting with Minister of Interior, Ali Yusuf Ali, NIRA Director General Abdiwali Abdulle, Galmudug State Minister of Education, and Directors General from Banadir Regional Administration, Southwest State, and HirShabelle, will soon require all education services in Somalia to be integrated with the National ID system.
Beginning in January 2026, all parents and guardians will be required to enroll learners through an education system linked to NIRA’s National ID system. Similarly, all university students will be required to possess a valid National ID to access higher education services.
