The National Identification Authority (NIA) has commenced the nationwide issuance of Ghana Cards to children aged between 6 and 14 years across 56 selected districts. The exercise began on Monday, October 6, marking a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to extend the national identity system to younger citizens.
The distribution follows months of preparatory registration exercises conducted in schools earlier this year. According to the NIA, the cards are being issued at the same schools where the children were initially enrolled. Each child is required to be physically present and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, who must present the original registration receipt (Form A) issued during the registration phase.
In a statement, the Authority announced that all outstanding backlogs of unprinted Ghana Cards have been cleared.
“We are committed to ensuring that every eligible Ghanaian child receives their Ghana Card in a timely and secure manner. We urge parents and guardians to follow instructions and cooperate with our officers,” the statement said.
The NIA explained that this exercise represents the first phase of the distribution process, with additional districts expected to be covered in the coming weeks. Children who missed the initial registration opportunity will be given new dates once the next phase is announced.
The child registration initiative forms part of Ghana’s broader strategy to capture every citizen in the National Identity Register from an early age. The NIA noted that a comprehensive identity system is crucial for national planning, education, healthcare delivery, and overall socio-economic development.
