Starting September 1, Somalis in the Benadir region must present a national digital ID to open or update a bank account, according to a directive from the Central Bank of Somalia (CBS).
The rollout will expand across the country in phases.
Why it matters
The move is part of Somalia’s push to strengthen identity verification, combat financial fraud, and integrate essential services with the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) digital ID system.
The government is aiming to register 15 million citizens in the next four years, with support from the World Bank.
Driving the news
- The CBS directive is backed by NIRA and the Somali Bankers Association, and aligns with an earlier order by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre for all institutions to adopt the national ID system.
- Customers with expired IDs must update their account information using the NIRA-issued ID.
- The initiative is tied to CBS’s rollout of an electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) framework.
The big picture
The digital ID requirement is part of Somalia’s broader efforts to build a secure and transparent financial system, boost public trust in banking, and reduce identity-related fraud. The ID is also now required for government services like obtaining a driver’s license.
What’s next
CBS and NIRA are urging citizens to register at authorized bank branches or NIRA service centers to avoid disruptions in banking services. The Benadir pilot will serve as a blueprint for national implementation.
Source: Biometric Update
