GIFEC boss vows smooth SIM re-registration

Ghana's botched 2021-to-2023 SIM registration fiasco is getting a do-over that promises zero queues and phone-based sign-up from home.

GIFEC boss on the new SIM process

• Rashid Tanko Computer of GIFEC promised a stress-free re-registration.
• Users can complete everything from home on their phones.
• Tanko called the redesigned system simple and user-friendly.
• The fresh exercise is expected to kick off in June.

Why a redo was necessary

• The previous round forced SIM-to-Ghana-Card linking via two steps.
• Long queues and technical headaches plagued that entire rollout.
• Weak verification let people grab multiple SIM cards easily.
• Those loopholes directly fueled mobile money fraud schemes.

Real-time verification this time around

• NCA and NIA are collaborating more closely for authentication.
• Real-time identity checks replace the old, flawed process entirely.
• National security and fraud reduction remain the core goals.
• The government designed the overhaul to fix prior shortcomings specifically.