Ursula to appear before Parliament over SIM card re-registration exercise

During a parliamentary session, Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Sam Nartey George, raised concerns about the significant repercussions caused by the deactivation of SIM cards due to delays in the release of Ghana Cards by the National Identification Authority (NIA).

He shed light on the adverse effects this situation has had on people’s livelihoods and their ability to access their mobile money, which has become inaccessible due to the deactivation of their SIM cards.

Sam Nartey George highlighted that the responsibility for this issue lies with the National Identification Authority, as they have failed to issue Ghana Cards to any Ghanaian citizens at district offices since December 2022.

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Consequently, it is not the fault of the individuals affected that they have been unable to register their SIM cards within the stipulated timeframe.

The Ghana Card, issued by the National Identification Authority, serves as the sole acceptable document for SIM card registration in the country.

However, acquiring the Ghana Card has proven challenging for many citizens, leading to repeated deadline extensions by the National Communications Authority (NCA) for SIM card registration.

The final deadline set by the NCA was May 31, 2023, after which any unregistered SIM cards would be deactivated.

To address the issue, Sam Nartey George urged those without a Ghana Card to visit the National Identification Authority to obtain the necessary card.

Once individuals have acquired the Ghana Card, they should follow the instructions to dial the registration code provided and complete the SIM card registration process.

The deactivation of SIM cards has had a profound impact on individuals and communities, causing disruptions to communication, financial transactions, and essential services that rely on mobile connectivity.

The inability to access mobile money services has particularly affected people’s daily lives and economic activities, hindering financial transactions and impeding business operations.

The concerns raised by Sam Nartey George in Parliament highlight the urgent need to address the challenges surrounding the issuance of Ghana Cards and the subsequent registration of SIM cards.

This issue goes beyond inconvenience and directly impacts the economic well-being of individuals and the smooth functioning of various sectors in Ghana.

In response to the concerns raised, it is crucial for the relevant authorities, including the National Identification Authority and the National Communications Authority, to work collaboratively to streamline the process of obtaining Ghana Cards and ensure efficient SIM card registration.

Prompt actions and solutions are necessary to alleviate the hardships faced by citizens and restore seamless access to mobile services, including mobile money, which is vital for everyday transactions and financial inclusion.