The New National Digital ID Proclamation of Ethiopia

Digital ID systems have become increasingly popular places around the globe as they offer a range of benefits to governments, businesses, and individuals. Digital ID systems can create secure online means for citizens to access government services as provision is increasingly moved online; help companies reduce operating costs associated with regulatory compliance, widen customer bases, prevent crimes, generate new markets, and foster a business-friendly environment more broadly also increase efficiency by reducing the time spent on transactions. It provides verification and authentication to a high degree of assurance, uniqueness, individual consent, protection of user privacy, and control over personal data.

Recently, Ethiopia has enacted a National Digital ID Proclamation No. 1284/2023 which introduces a foundational ID system that can be used in any kind of service in Ethiopia where it is issued. The Digital ID is a unique number given to a person living in Ethiopia after registering by providing biometric and demographic information to the institute or a body that is given authority by the institute. The Digital ID is used as sufficient and legal evidence of one’s residency, and it is acceptable in all parts of the country. Refusal to provide service with this ID will result in criminal liability.

Every person living in Ethiopia has the right to obtain a digital ID by registering and providing biometric and demographic information. The digital ID serves as sufficient and legal evidence of residency and is accepted throughout the country.

The digital ID is fully functional on its own and complements other forms of identification. A procedure has been established to ensure that all functional IDs are incorporated into the digital ID system. Arrangements have been made with the National Bank of Ethiopia and the Ministry of Revenue to facilitate this process.

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