Phase 1 national IDs in Malawi

Over 1.6 million Malawians registered in phase 4 of national identification registration exercise.

Announcing the figure at a joint press conference in Mangochi Minister of Home Affairs Grace Obama Chiumia said the predicted number was over 1.7 million registrants.

Chiumia said the success is due to hard work, dedication and commitment of NRB and NRIS project staff, registration officers and government,” said Chiumia.

“I am delighted that phase 4 just like phases 1, 2 and 3 NRB performed well by registering full coverage of eligible population which represents 97.1 percent. In phase 1 they managed to reach 97.2 percent, in phase 2 almost 100 percent while phase 3 99.1 percent,” she explained.

Chiumia further said National IDs for phase 1 districts of Mchinji, Kasungu, Ntchisi, Dowa, Salima and Nkhota-kota arrived in the country on Friday October 13.

She said mass registration for phase 5 districts of Mximba, Chitipa, Rumphi, Karonga and Nkhatabay is almost complete which means the campaign will be finalized soon.

“Everyone will register as some kits are still at District commissioner offices for those who did not register. I commend all development partners for their technical and financial support for successful mass registration exercise,” Chiumia said.

In her remarks British High Commissioner to Malawi Holly Tett said successful completion of phase 4 means that some registration officers were dedicated to finish their assignment.

“They would be given certificate which will open their chances to more opportunities,” she said.

Tett expressed concern over long distances people walk in phase five to reach registration centres.

Among others national IDs will help in accessing social services easily.