Digital ID systems in Africa: A dream of inclusion or a threat to privacy?

April 21, 2025

Africa is experiencing a rapid implementation of digital ID systems as part of the African Union's Digital Transformation Strategy, which aims to provide unique digital identities to all Africans by 2030. These systems promise improved service delivery, economic inclusion, and enhanced governance efficiency, with UNECA projecting potential GDP growth of 3-13% by 2030 through effective implementation. Despite these benefits, significant concerns exist regarding privacy, data security, and exclusion, with advocacy groups warning about surveillance risks and the approximately 500 million Africans still lacking legal identification.

Who is affected

African citizens across the continent, particularly the estimated 500 million who still lack legal identification
Rural communities and marginalized populations including refugees and stateless persons who risk exclusion
Citizens concerned about privacy and data security
Businesses and individuals engaging in cross-border trade under AfCFTA
Recipients of government services in healthcare, education, and social protection programs
Adults in Rwanda (98% registered) and other countries with established digital ID systems

What action is being taken

African Union is implementing its Digital Transformation Strategy (2020-2030) with digital ID as a key component
Governments across Africa are rapidly rolling out digital ID systems like Kenya's Maisha Namba and Nigeria's National Identification Number
Digital ID systems are being used to streamline delivery of healthcare, education, and social protection programs
Initiatives like Safer Internet Day are promoting discussions on online privacy and responsible digital engagement
Advocacy organizations including Privacy International and Access Now are raising alarms about surveillance risks
Rwanda is using its digital ID system to better target social welfare programs and streamline health services access

Why it matters

Digital IDs could drive Africa's GDP growth by 3-13% by 2030 according to UNECA projections
The systems enable greater financial inclusion by facilitating access to banking, credit, and formal markets
Digital IDs enhance public service efficiency and reduce bureaucratic hurdles
Under AfCFTA, these systems ease cross-border trade and labor mobility
Centralized databases are vulnerable to cyberattacks, with countries like Nigeria and Kenya already experiencing breaches
Without clear data protection policies, personal information could be exploited for political or commercial gain
Digital literacy gaps and accessibility issues disproportionately affect marginalized communities

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: Global Voices