Position Statement by WAICTANet on CSA-NIR Partnership for Biometric Verification in Liberia
As a leading advocate for Digital ID systems and public awareness in Liberia, the West Africa ICT Action Network (WAICTANet) commends the Civil Service Agency (CSA) and the National Identification Registry (NIR) for their historic collaboration to implement biometric identification cards for government employees. This initiative represents a significant step toward improving public sector accountability, efficiency, and transparency.
Peterking Quaye, Executive Director of WAICTANet, applauded this partnership, “The CSA-NIR agreement marks a milestone in Liberia’s journey toward embracing digital governance. By integrating biometric verification systems, the government is taking tangible steps to reduce payroll fraud, increase efficiency, and foster greater trust in public administration.”
While acknowledging this progress, WAICTANet calls for heightened measures to address critical data protection and privacy concerns. As digital transformation advances, safeguarding the personal data of Liberians must remain a top priority. Specifically, we urge:
- Strengthened Data Protection Policies: The enactment and enforcement of robust legal frameworks to ensure the secure storage, handling, and sharing of citizens’ data.
- Data Privacy Assurance: Clear guidelines on how citizens’ information is collected, used, and protected to build trust and mitigate concerns about misuse.
- Enhanced Cybersecurity Measures: Investments in state-of-the-art technology to prevent breaches and unauthorized access to sensitive data.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Efforts to educate Liberians on their rights concerning digital ID systems and the importance of data privacy.
To support these efforts, WAICTANet offers to build the capacity of NIR officials through tailored training programs at no cost. This initiative will empower NIR to uphold international best practices in data management and foster a culture of data protection within the public sector.
We believe this partnership between CSA and NIR is a foundation for transformative governance. WAICTANet remains committed to working collaboratively with stakeholders to ensure that Liberia’s digital future is inclusive, secure, and trusted by all its citizens.
