The Namibian government has confirmed that the rollout of electronic identity (e-ID) cards will begin in September 2026, following delays to allow for the finalisation of legislation governing data protection and identity management.
Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security Minister Lucia Iipumbu announced the timeline while responding to questions in Parliament this week.
The electronic identity card system was initially scheduled for implementation in February but was postponed to ensure the necessary legal framework was in place before the launch.
According to Iipumbu, the e-ID project forms part of government’s broader efforts to modernise identity management, strengthen national security and improve access to public services.
The electronic cards will store biometric and demographic information, including fingerprints and photographs, in a secure digital format designed to support identity verification across both public and private sector institutions.
The minister said funding for preparatory work had already been allocated in previous financial years and that the ministry was continuing with implementation preparations ahead of the September launch.
Iipumbu also revealed that government intends to source the technology through an open tender process and will seek to maximise participation by local service providers.
“And what we are saying is that we want to help the service providers being sourced locally. There would be an open tender when the time is right for the systems to be developed, and that is the approach,” she said.
Addressing concerns raised on social media, Iipumbu dismissed claims that the system would be used to track citizens or involve the implantation of microchips.
“Furthermore, the e-ID has no capability to track, monitor or control the movements or activities of citizens. The Government of the Republic of Namibia is fully committed to protecting the constitutional rights and freedoms of all citizens,” she said.
The ministry has also begun stakeholder consultations and public awareness initiatives to explain how the electronic identity system will operate and the safeguards that will be put in place to protect personal information.
Once implemented, the e-ID card is expected to become a key component of Namibia’s digital transformation agenda and the modernisation of government services.
