By Jones Gadama
The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has announced that it will commence the rollout of biometric SIM card registration starting July 1, 2025.
This move aims to enhance security, ensure accountability, and improve service delivery across the telecommunications sector.
According to MACRA’s Head of ICT, Steve Perete, the new biometric registration system will help curb fraud and improve traceability, ultimately strengthening consumer protection and national security.
“The biometric SIM registration will help curb fraud and improve traceability, ultimately strengthening consumer protection and national security,” he said.
The exercise will be carried out in collaboration with the National Registration Bureau (NRB), ensuring that every SIM card is linked to a verified national identity.
This means that mobile phone users will be required to provide their biometric data, such as fingerprints or facial recognition, to register their SIM cards.
The move follows growing concerns over the misuse of mobile numbers in illegal activities and aligns with global trends in telecom regulation.
MACRA’s decision to implement biometric SIM card registration is part of its efforts to promote a safe and secure telecommunications environment in Malawi.
The rollout of biometric SIM card registration is a significant step towards promoting a secure and accountable telecommunications environment in Malawi.
By requiring mobile phone users to register their SIM cards with biometric data, MACRA aims to reduce the risk of online crimes and ensure that users are held accountable for their actions.
