MOGADISHU, Sept. 16 (Xinhua) -- Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre on Saturday launched the national identification and registration process in a bid to foster digital transformation in the country during a forum held in the capital of Mogadishu.
Barre said that the new biometric ID system will open more opportunities for the citizens and create a conducive environment to foster national cohesion.
"The inception of the national ID will help the Somali people overcome myriad socio-economic challenges that hinder their potential development while advancing democracy and rule of law," Barre said.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud who received his national identification card said that having national identification will boost the country's security, and recognize suicide bombers, militants, and other malign actors.
According to Villa Somalia, President Mohamud was issued his ID card as part of the national ID issuance rollout in the country, hailing the initiative as a significant milestone in Somalia's state-building process since it will enhance security among other national priorities. ■