WINDHOEK: Approximately 77 000 identification cards out of more than 300 000 printed by the Ministry of Home Affairs since 18 November 2021, have not been collected by applicants.
Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, Albert Kawana, during a Cabinet Committee Briefing on Thursday said the ministry will work with regional councils and constituency councillors to ensure that the uncollected ID cards are distributed.
“With the elections approaching, nationals should play their part in collecting these identification cards so that they are able to take part in free, fair, transparent, and credible elections next year,” he said.
Kawana also highlighted the efficiency of the ID card application process, saying it now takes only five days to obtain an ID card, whereas before it could take months. In cases of emergency, the ministry can issue an identification card within 24 hours.
The minister further said the Ministry of Home Affairs’ visa upon arrival initiative, which was recently introduced, has led to substantial growth in the tourism sector.
“We have introduced online application for tourist and work visas. Tourists are enjoying the benefits of the online platform, which enables them to be granted entry to Namibia directly,” Kawana said.
He said funds generated from the online applications go directly to the State revenue account as the ministry does not handle cash, ensuring proper and effective accounting.
Source: The Namibian Press Agency