Over 246 000 new-look IDs issued

• By Michael Uugwanga

MINISTRY of Home Affairs Executive Director Etienne Maritz says the ministry has issued a total of 246 773 new-look national identity cards (IDs) since their introduction in 2021.

The new IDs are used as travel documents between Namibia and Botswana via the Trans-Kalahari border crossing.

Maritz said the two governments intend to extend the same service to other border crossings, but any changes will be reported to the public as they occur.

She said Khomas Region received the most applications for new IDs with 75 679, while the Kavango West Region had the fewest with 4 146.

“The Ministry conducts periodic awareness campaigns and participates in Expos and Trade Fairs to educate the public about products and services. Furthermore, the Ministry conducts mobile registrations in distant areas and schools, bringing services closer to the people.

“In addition, the Ministry conducted outreach programmes to communities living along the border lines, such as Omaheke, Otjozondjupa, Kavango East, and Zambezi Regions,” said Maritz.

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