In an era where digital transformation is not just an aspiration but a necessity, Zambia is poised to take a monumental leap forward. The recent workshop on the Zambia Country Assessment for the Model Governance Framework for Digital Legal Identity, hosted by the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security (MoHAIS) in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), marked a significant milestone. It was an event teeming with anticipation and promise, where government officials, experts, and stakeholders came together with a shared vision of a digitally inclusive Zambia.

" Mr. Nkula Mwanza, Director - ICT at the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security (MoHAIS), during his opening address on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Dickson Matembo, highlighted that this initiative couldn’t have come at a better time.  "We are excited to update you that despite limited tools, we have managed to onboard a significant number of citizens to our INRIS database, and the process is ongoing."

The significance of the meetings held during the assessment lies not only in the immediate objectives but also in the roader implications for Zambia and Africa at large. Across the continent, the push towards digital legal identity systems is gaining momentum, including the use of biometric identities (IDs). Countries like Morocco, Nigeria, and Malawi are among those that have implemented biometric ID systems, recognizing the myriad benefits these systems offer, from enhancing service delivery to ensuring the rights and security of their citizens.

However, the implementation of digital identity systems is not without challenges. Privacy issues are a major concern, as the collection and storage of biometric data must be safeguarded against misuse and breaches. Technological barriers also exist, including the need for reliable infrastructure and technical expertise to maintain and secure these systems. Additionally, public acceptance is crucial, citizens must trust and understand the benefits of digital IDs for the initiative to succeed.

Speaking at the workshop, UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. James Wakiaga emphasized that innovation and technology of the new ID system are the cornerstones of digital transformation and added that "they help to improve efficiency in government public service."

Mr Wakiaga stated that "The absence of a secure legal identity system fosters exclusion and impacts negatively on the ability of citizens to access pensions, social services, business opportunities, and other government services. This reality underscores the urgency for robust digital ID systems. By providing a secure and universally accessible means of identification, countries can dramatically improve public service delivery and foster inclusive economic growth. In Zambia, the initiative is part of a broader strategy to harness technology for sustainable development, ensuring no one is left behind.

The workshop was more than just a meeting, it was a collaborative effort to chart a clear path forward. The event featured in-depth discussions, focus group interviews, and a series of strategic planning sessions. Experts from UNDP, along with government representatives from civil society worked together to identify governance gaps and develop actionable proposals.

"This assessment will produce a mobilization plan for implementation," noted Mr. Mwanza, emphasizing the concrete outcomes expected from the initiative. "Your participation and contributions will be instrumental in ensuring the success of this assessment and subsequent implementation."

Structured around the Model Governance Framework for Legal Digital Identity Systems, the assessment aims to provide a comprehensive blueprint for implementing or enhancing digital ID systems. For Zambia, the focus will be on ensuring a rights-based, inclusive, and user-driven digital ID system.

"Governance assessment models like these are crucial for framing strategic national conversations and positioning the country for future advancements," stated Mr. Wakiaga. "UNDP is committed to sustaining partnerships and fostering collaboration across sectors for effective e-governance."

Digital legal identity systems promise numerous benefits. They streamline government operations, reduce costs, and enhance public record accuracy. For citizens, reliable digital IDs simplify access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and voting. The technology behind biometric IDs and digital identity systems involves capturing unique biological traits such as fingerprints, facial features, or iris patterns, which are then stored in a secure database. These biometric markers are difficult to forge, ensuring a high level of security and accuracy in identity verification processes. Implementing such technology requires sophisticated equipment and software, as well as robust data protection measures to prevent unauthorized access and ensure citizens' privacy.

As Zambia progresses on this transformative journey, understanding how local context influences the initiative is crucial. Unique challenges such as rural infrastructure limitations and varying digital literacy levels require tailored solutions. UNDP collaborates closely with Government of Zambia to address these challenges through initiatives like mobile registration units and public awareness campaigns on digital ID benefits, ensuring accessibility and effectiveness for all Zambians.