CSA Boss Rallies Call For Proper Identification Across Liberia 

By Rancy S. Teewia 

 The head of the Civil Service Agency (CSA), Josiah F. Joekai has underscored the need for a reliable identification system to ensure good service delivery and development in Liberia.

The CSA Director General avowed that identification is not only critical for individuals but also for governments and economies, adding that a reliable identification system allows governments to better plan and deliver services, manage migration, and improve security.

According to him, it also enables individuals to participate fully in the economy, access credit, and engage in financial transactions.

The CSA boss made the statement on Monday September 16, 2024, at the Monrovia City Hall, when he served as keynote speaker at the observance of the World Day of Identification, held under the theme, "Celebrating the Right to be Visible."

He cited that with a reliable identification system Liberia will be better positioned to achieve vision for the growth and development of Liberia, adding, “we can ensure that all citizens have access to basic social services, financial inclusion, and a sense of security in their country, and to make this a reality, we must all work together."

Mr. Joekai explained that the lack of identification is a significant issue around the world, with millions of people lacking legal identity, noting that this situation creates numerous challenges for individuals, including limited access to basic services, exclusion from political rights, and inability to participate in the economy.

"In the past, Liberia has dealt with the negative effects of not having a reliable identification system. It has limited our ability to plan, implement policies, and ensure that every citizen receives the benefits they deserve," he stressed.

He also stressed that the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 16.9 seeks to ensure that everyone has a legal identity by 2030, and Liberia has an important role to play in achieving this goal, not only for the Liberian citizens but also for the neighboring region.

"We must make efforts to ensure that everyone within our borders is identified legally, and work with others in the region to promote similar efforts," he said.

Mr. Joekai stated that the National Identification Registry (NIR) is making great strides towards a more reliable identification system that can be used across a wide range of institutions and sectors. He said the establishment of the NIR is a testament to the government’s commitment to improving the identification system in Liberia.

"The NIR is now in the process of registering all citizens and residents of Liberia, creating a reliable database that can be used to plan, implement, and monitor development policies,” he stressed, noting that “with a reliable identification system, we can ensure that every Liberian has access to basic social services and financial inclusion." 

"We can also use the system to identify potential security threats and ensure that our country is protected from those who wish to cause harm. It is also important to note that good identity schemes must be built on the respect of privacy and human rights," the CSA boss said.