A fresh national SIM card registration exercise will begin July 1, 2025, alongside the establishment of a Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR), in a major push to strengthen national security and eliminate fraud in the telecommunications sector.
The initiative, unveiled by the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, is a direct response to critical shortfalls in the previous registration carried out under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration.
“This registration is critical for our collective security as a nation,” the Minister emphasized at a press conference in Accra on Wednesday.
Old system riddled with gaps and fraud
Sam George explained that the former SIM registration process failed to properly match registrants’ biometric data with SIM cards and lacked robust backend verification.
“This enabled fraudulent individuals to register multiple SIM cards under false identities and commit various forms of crime without being traceable,” he noted.
The absence of a Central Equipment Identity Register also meant that stolen or counterfeit devices could be used freely across mobile networks.
A seamless digital experience
The Minister assured Ghanaians that the new process will be technology-driven and hassle-free.
Unlike the chaotic scenes seen during the previous exercise, the upcoming registration will prioritize convenience, speed, and efficiency.
“It will be devoid of long queues at mobile network operator offices,” he stressed.
A nationwide sensitization campaign will precede the launch to ensure citizens understand the process and benefits of the upgraded system.
One million Coders Programme
In a major digital leap forward, Hon. George also announced the upcoming launch of President John Dramani Mahama’s One Million Coders Programme, aimed at creating job opportunities and positioning Ghana as Africa’s digital talent hub.
The programme will be launched on April 16 at the Kofi Annan Centre for Excellence in ICT in Accra, with a pilot rollout covering Greater Accra, Ashanti, Bono, and Upper East regions.
“This initiative has a 50/50 gender split by design to ensure inclusivity,” he explained.
Over 500 young people from Accra, Bolgatanga, Sunyani, and Kumasi are expected to participate in the launch.
A vision for digital Ghana
Sam George reiterated the government’s commitment to putting people at the heart of Ghana’s digital transformation.
“Ghana’s future is being built with purpose, with strategic partnerships, and with the people at the centre,” he said.
He praised the strong private sector interest in the coders programme as a sign of confidence in President Mahama’s digital vision.
“We are confident that Ghana will soon become a net exporter of critical digital skills,” he added.
A secure and digital future awaits
With the rollout of a robust, secure SIM registration process and the training of a new generation of digital professionals, Ghana is charting a bold path toward a safer, smarter, and more inclusive digital future.
