Verification

NIRA ensures the verification of national IDs for all individuals registered both inside and outside Somalia by cross-checking and authenticating identity information to maintain accurate and secure national records. Utilizing advanced technologies such as fingerprint and face recognition, NIRA enhances the integrity of the verification process, reducing the risk of identity fraud. The verification process includes comprehensive data validation, biometric authentication, and collaboration with international agencies to verify identities of citizens abroad. Regular updates and audits ensure the accuracy of these processes, with immediate resolution of any discrepancies.

The ID system offers multiple identity verification and authentication mechanisms to support transactions and services, catering to different risk levels and contexts (offline/online). For offline verification, credentials can be authenticated via manual ID card inspection and QR code scanning, while digital authentication for online services (under development) will include ID number validation, biometric authentication, one-time passwords, and a digital version of the ID card via a mobile app.

Service providers will have access to NIRA's real-time, online authentication services after signing an MoU. NIRA is developing the necessary software modules to support these verification services and plans to charge certain service providers a fee for sustainability, while offering free services in the first year as the national ID database matures.

Initial use cases for NIRA's verification and authentication services include the financial sector, social protection programs, telecommunications/SIM registration, aviation, and government institutions like immigration and local social services. NIRA plans to conduct a mapping exercise to better understand the needs of relying parties and tailor its services accordingly.