The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) has launched a national campaign to raise awareness of the introduction of mandatory SIM card registration, which will come into effect on 1 January 2023.
Noting the process was in line with international best practice, CRAN CEO Emilia Nghikembua explained that operators will need to register all existing customers within twelve months and any new subscriptions within three months of the date of sale, following which all unregistered SIMs will be deactivated.
The executive highlighted that having a secure authorised digital identity has become increasingly important in a democratic society in the interests of national security, public safety, and for the prevention of crime. ‘SIM registration can enable many consumers to access value-added mobile and digital services that would otherwise be unavailable to them as unregistered users. Namibia must leverage on the use of safe and secure mobile technology to enjoy the benefits of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals,’ she said.