President John Dramani Mahama has criticised Ghana’s previous SIM re- registration exercise, describing it as poorly coordinated and largely ineffective.
He explained that the exercise faced major challenges because the then Communications Minister and the head of the National Identification Authority were not on good terms.
According to him, the lack of cooperation between the two institutions affected the proper linking of SIM cards to the Ghana Card, which is key to identifying users.
He noted that many people were asked to register their SIM cards under difficult conditions, often standing in long queues at telecom centres such as MTN Ghana registration points.
He added that despite the stress, the process did not achieve its main goal because it failed to properly connect SIM cards to the national identification system.
He explained that a proper SIM registration system should link every phone number to a verified Ghana Card so that users can be easily identified when necessary.
He said the previous exercise only led to the issuing of new SIM cards without proper verification, making it less useful.
He, however, assured that a new SIM registration approach would correct these challenges.
He explained that the new system would allow users to register their SIM cards using a simple code on their phones, without necessarily visiting telecom offices.
He added that users would be required to enter their personal details, including their Ghana Card number, which would then be verified through a central database.
He noted that telecom companies would bear the cost of the registration process, making it free for users.
He also explained that people facing challenges, such as changing ownership of a SIM card, could visit their service providers for assistance.
He emphasised that the new process is designed to be simple, secure and more effective in linking SIM cards to individuals.
He assured the public that the improved system would help address concerns around identity tracking and make SIM registration more reliable.
By: Jacob Aggrey
