Ghana merges mobile money, driver’s licenses under biometric ID overhaul

Ghana Accelerates Digital Identity Revolution: Ghana Card Now Integrates Mobile Money, Banking, and Driver’s Licenses
Accra, Ghana – Ghana’s National Identification Authority (NIA) has unveiled a sweeping plan to transform the Ghana Card into a multifunctional digital powerhouse, integrating mobile money, bank accounts, and driver’s licenses under a unified biometric system.

RELATED: NIMC, NIBSS, and AfriGO unveil multi-wallet digital cards to drive financial inclusion

This initiative, led by Acting CEO Yayra Koku, positions Ghana at the forefront of Africa’s digital identity revolution, mirroring Nigeria’s recent push for multi-wallet digital IDs to boost financial inclusion.

Key Features of Ghana’s Integrated ID System

1. Seamless Financial Inclusion: Ghana Card holders can now link mobile money (MoMo) wallets and bank accounts directly to their biometric IDs, eliminating the need for vendor-specific details.
2. Driver’s License Integration: Redundant fingerprinting at DVLA offices will end as the system leverages existing Ghana Card biometric data.
3. Instant Card Replacement: Fingerprint verification at self-service kiosks cuts replacement time from weeks to minutes.
4. Biometric Security Overhaul: Mandatory fingerprint authentication via the Identity Verification System Platform (IVSP) replaces visual ID checks to combat fraud.

Regional Context: West Africa’s Digital ID Race

Ghana’s move follows Nigeria’s launch of multi-wallet digital ID cards in collaboration with NIBSS and AfriGO, targeting a 30% rise in financial inclusion. Both nations aim to harness digital IDs to streamline services, curb identity theft, and unlock GDP growth.

By the Numbers:

• 17 million+: Ghanaians already registered with the Ghana Card.
• $1.2B: Projected annual GDP boost from Nigeria’s digital ID rollout (NIMC).
• 70%: Target financial inclusion rate for Ghana by 2026 (World Bank).

Leadership Insights: Vision for a Digitally Empowered Ghana

Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Ghana’s Vice President, emphasized:
“This integration isn’t just about convenience—it’s about building a digital economy where every Ghanaian can securely access government services, pay tolls, or apply for passports with one card. We’re creating a foundation for business growth and equitable service delivery.”

Yayra Koku, NIA Acting CEO, added:
“Imagine replacing a lost ID in minutes or paying bills without memorizing MoMo codes. This is the future we’re delivering—a Ghana Card that’s your wallet, license, and passport.”

Security & Policy: Fighting Fraud with Biometrics

The NIA has mandated biometric verification for all Ghana Card transactions, banning outdated visual checks. The IVSP platform cross-references fingerprints with the National Identity Register, ensuring real-time authentication.

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Why It Matters:

• Identity Theft Prevention: Biometrics reduce fraud risks in Nigeria’s and Ghana’s fintech sectors, valued at $12B combined.
• EMV Compliance: Ghana’s upgraded payment infrastructure aligns with global security standards.

Broader Impact: From Toll Payments to Passport Applications

• Government Services: The Ghana Card will soon enable toll payments, tax filings, and healthcare access.
• Regional Leadership: Ghana joins Kenya, South Africa, and Nigeria in Africa’s unified digital ID surge, projected to add $1.6T to continental GDP by 2030 (IMF).

Challenges Ahead

• Rural Connectivity: Ensuring biometric access in off-grid communities.
• Data Privacy: Balancing convenience with stringent protections under Ghana’s Data Protection Act.

Why Investors Should Care
With 500 million Africans lacking legal ID, Ghana’s model offers a blueprint for scalable digital identity solutions. Tech firms like Mastercard and MTN are poised to partner with NIA, tapping into a $3B digital ID market projected for West Africa by 2027 (McKinsey).