The Government of Ghana has announced an immediate moratorium on the procurement and use of independent biometric Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS) by all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), as well as Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs).

This directive, contained in a letter signed by the Secretary to the President, Callistus Mahama, and dated October 24, aims to streamline biometric identification systems, enhance data security, and ensure efficient resource utilization across government institutions.

According to the letter, effective immediately, all MDAs and MMDAs are prohibited from:

• Procuring, developing, or deploying independent biometric AFIS.
• Operating parallel biometric databases separate from that of the National Identification Authority (NIA).
• Verifying the identities of persons using only ocular inspection of the Ghana Card, without biometric verification and authentication.
• Entering into new contracts for biometric system procurement without express authorization from the Presidency.

Directive Anchored in Law

Mr. Mahama emphasized that the directive aligns with existing legal frameworks, including:

• The National Identification Authority Act, 2006 (Act 707)
• The National Identity Register Act, 2008 (Act 750) as amended
• The National Identity Register Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2111)

These laws grant the National Identification Authority (NIA) exclusive powers to register and issue national identity cards, commonly known as the Ghana Card to Ghanaian citizens and legally resident foreign nationals both within and outside Ghana.

“This moratorium is in line with Government’s commitment to ensuring efficient resource utilization, data security, and standardization of biometric identification systems,” Mr. Mahama stated.

Special Requests Must Be Approved by Presidency

The directive further stipulates that any MDA or MMDA requiring a specialized biometric system for unique operational purposes must submit a formal justification to the Office of the President and obtain written approval before proceeding.

“Any non-compliant procurement shall be deemed illegal and a blatant disregard of this directive,” the letter warned.

Integration Deadline

All government institutions currently operating independent biometric systems have been given six months to integrate their databases with the National Identification System (NIS) managed by the NIA.

This integration is expected to centralize biometric data, enhance inter-agency collaboration, and strengthen national cybersecurity frameworks.

Promoting a Unified National Identification System

The directive marks a significant step toward achieving a standardized national biometric framework, reducing duplication of systems across public institutions, and safeguarding sensitive citizen data.

Analysts believe this move will also cut costs associated with multiple biometric platforms and improve the efficiency of public service delivery through unified identity verification.