The Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Sam George, has assured Ghanaians that the next SIM re-registration exercise will be the final one. He explained that the government is introducing a stronger, technology-based system that will make the process easier and help reduce fraud.
According to him, this new system is very different from the previous ones. It is designed to solve past problems such as delays, weak verification, and the frustration many people experienced during earlier registrations.
Mr. George said one major improvement is the collaboration between key government agencies. These include the National Identification Authority (NIA), National Communications Authority (NCA), Immigration Service, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and others. He explained that the NIA will serve as the main source for verifying identities, making the process more accurate and reliable.
Speaking at a media engagement in Accra, the minister expressed confidence that this teamwork and improved system would ensure the exercise is done properly and does not have to be repeated again.
He also stressed that communication and public education will play a big role in the success of the exercise. According to him, the process is “75 percent communication and 25 percent technology.” This means the government will focus on clearly informing people and guiding them through the process to avoid confusion.
Mr. George explained that one of the biggest mistakes in the past was trying to transfer old data into new systems without proper checks. This only carried forward existing errors and fraud. However, with the NIA’s improved system, proper biometric verification will now be used to ensure only accurate and clean data is captured.
More Convenient for the Public
To make things easier, the new system will allow people to register their SIM cards using their smartphones from home. This will reduce long queues at registration centres.
For those who still need help, there will be an appointment system to avoid overcrowding. In addition, mobile registration teams will travel across the country to assist people in different areas.
Mr. George also mentioned that Ghana Post offices and Community Information Centres will be used to support the exercise, especially in rural communities where access may be limited.
He added that the registration will only begin after all legal processes are completed and approved by Parliament. He assured the public that consultations with stakeholders are still ongoing to make sure everything runs smoothly.
Warning Against Fraud
The minister warned that anyone who uses their Ghana Card to register SIM cards for fraudulent activities could face serious consequences. Repeat offenders may even be blocked from using telecom services.
He said the government’s main goal is to build trust in digital systems, reduce mobile money fraud, and improve security in the telecommunications sector.
A More Secure System
The Director-General of the NCA, Edmund Yirenkyi Fianko, also explained that the new system will be more inclusive, efficient, and secure.
He revealed that a Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) will be introduced. This system will make it possible to block stolen or illegal mobile phones from working on any network in Ghana. This is expected to reduce phone theft and prevent the use of unauthorised devices.
Mr. Fianko also advised the public not to register SIM cards for other people, as this can create serious security risks.
He added that the authorities are still engaging stakeholders and working on technical details. More information will be shared with the public as the process moves forward.