Implementation of a National Identification System in Ghana: Lessons from the Indian Aadhaar System.

Abstract

This study explores the implementation of national identification system through a comparative study of national identification in India and Ghana. The study is situated in the theory of organizing vision by Swanson and Ramiller. Data for the study was obtained from primary sources, mainly through interviews and secondary sources of information included internets, journal articles, books, reports etc. The study revealed that lack of central database poses a major challenge to the implementation national identification projects in Ghana. The study also revealed that strong legislative instrument is critical to protect both citizens’ identity and national identification databases. The study also identified the best practices in the Indian Identification system that could be incorporated in the ongoing national identification project in Ghana, including the outsourcing of certain identification projects to the private sector to ensure cost effectiveness, efficiency and to make the project financially viable. The study recommends that there should be registration and issuance of national identity cards at birth. The national identity card should be the main requirement for the acquisition of any national document such as passport, driving license etc. It should also be the legitimate document to be used to access other government services like school enrollment, pension entitlements, among others, to serve as motivation for citizens with the aim of enhancing enrollment.