The first components of SA’s new digital identity documents (ID) system will be built over the next 12 months, says Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber.

Schreiber’s remarks follow the (Sona) where President Cyril Ramaphosa said that a new digital ID system will be implemented in the country. This will eliminate identity fraud, expand social and financial inclusion, and ensure access for all “at a touch”.

A digital ID is an electronic version of a person’s identity that allows them to prove who they are online. It includes personal information such as a name and photo, and is used for secure access to services like online banking, government websites, or digital transactions. It is often protected by passwords or biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial recognition, for an additional layer of security.

With encryption and multi-factor authentication, digital IDs help ensure that only authorised individuals can access sensitive information or perform secure transactions. This form of identification is important for several reasons, mainly related to security, convenience, and accessibility.

Having a secure digital identity enables citizens to access services such as tax filing, voting, and healthcare without the need for physical paperwork.

For businesses, it can improve the speed of onboarding customers or employees and reduce human error.

“As the custodian of all identity, civics and immigration services, Home Affairs is the linchpin for the digital transformation of government,” says Schreiber.

“Our five-year vision to deliver Home Affairs @ home, as announced in September last year, is built entirely around the digitalisation and automation of all services and processes, in alignment with the President’s [Sona] announcement,” he adds.

Several countries have successfully implemented digital ID systems. For example, Singapore’s digital ID system, launched in 2003, allows citizens to access various services like booking medical appointments, filing taxes, managing finances, and signing documents.

Initially, users faced security issues with passwords, but these were addressed by adding multi-factor authentication and biometrics for enhanced protection.

Business Unity SA CEO Khulekani Mathe says the renewed commitment to provide digital public infrastructure to give South Africans access to government services and the implementation of the digital identity system is long overdue.

“Evidence from other countries clearly demonstrates that digital identity systems enhance economic inclusion. The adoption of appropriate digital technologies is essential for improving service delivery to businesses and citizens and closing loopholes that facilitate corruption,” he notes.

In his Sona last week, Ramaphosa said a digital ID system will further streamline processes, making interactions with businesses and governments faster and more efficient.

“We will invest in digital public infrastructure to give South Africans access to government services anytime, anywhere.

“At the heart of this transformation will be the implementation of a digital identity system. These measures will transform the relationship between citizens and government, and create one government that is accessible to every person at a touch,” added Ramaphosa.