As the world reflected on the importance of identity in the digital age, Somalia, in a fitting tribute, unveiled its National ID system. This celebration wasn’t just a technological milestone, but a reaffirmation of every individual’s unique identity in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. The timing of the National ID launch, coinciding with International Identity Day, underscores Somalia’s commitment to global best practices and the universal right to legal identity.At its core, a National ID system is a means of identification. But in today’s interconnected world, it’s so much more than that. It’s a gateway to various services, both digital and non-digital. It’s the bridge between individuals and the digital world around them, opening doors to modernized healthcare, where medical records are seamlessly integrated. It speaks of a banking revolution, where financial inclusion is no longer a distant dream but an immediate reality for Somali citizens. For the youth, it represents a bridge to educational opportunities and entrepreneurial ventures, previously out of reach.

While this launch is a monumental step forward, it’s also essential to approach this new era with awareness and education. It becomes crucial for individuals to understand the opportunities and responsibilities that come with this system and the paramount importance of digital safety and rights becomes even more pronounced.

Imagine your identity, your personal details, and possibly even biometrics, being accessible at the click of a button. It sounds convenient, right? But it’s also a treasure trove for potential cyber-attacks or misuse. That’s where digital safety comes into play. As the national ID system rolls out, it becomes imperative that robust cybersecurity measures must be in place. After all, the ID isn’t just a card; it’s a representation of an individual’s digital self. Hand in hand with safety comes the matter of rights. Given that a national ID system inherently involves the collection, storage, and use of personal data, it’s essential to ask: Who owns this data? How is it used? And are they shared with or without consent?

As citizens register for their national IDs, it’s vital to ensure that their data remains protected against any breaches or misuse. Digital Shelter underscores the importance of implementing robust cybersecurity measures, safeguarding individual privacy, and ensuring that personal data is used only for its intended purposes.

While the launch of the National ID system marks a significant milestone for Somalia, it also brings forth responsibilities. Digital Shelter is steadfast in its belief that digital rights are an extension of human rights. As the National ID system takes shape, the organization emphasizes the need for transparency in data handling practices. The Somali citizens must be in control of their digital footprint!

For more details on Digital Shelter’s work,

• Website: https://digitalshelter.org
  
• Email: info@digitalshelter.org
  

Authored by Ayaan Khalif, Co-founder and Program Manager of Digital Shelter, You can find her on Twitter https://twitter.com/KhalifAyaan