Senators seek clarification on rollout of digital national ID

By The Inspirer.

The Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, on February 24, 2026, briefed the Senate on the progress of Rwanda’s digital national ID rollout, addressing concerns raised by lawmakers about its relevance, cost, and security.

The session focused largely on questions from senators regarding the practical value and economic justification of the new digital identification system.

Senator Nsengiyumva questioned the added value of introducing a new digital ID when citizens already possess conventional identity cards. He further asked how the country would recoup its investment at a macroeconomic level, noting that the project is expected to cost nearly Rwf75 billion.

In response, Minister Ingabire explained that the digital ID will reduce the burden on citizens who are often required to move from office to office seeking services — a challenge repeatedly highlighted in surveys conducted by the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB).

“The digital ID will enable citizens to access multiple services more easily and in more locations, while also lowering the cost of delivering those services,” she said.

Other concerns raised by senators included cybersecurity risks, particularly the possibility of personal data breaches that could expose citizens to fraud or loss of property. Lawmakers also pointed to the high cost of internet services and limited connectivity in some areas, which could hinder effective use of the digital ID.

Minister Ingabire reassured the Senate that these issues have been carefully considered in the design of the project and that safeguards and solutions are in place to address them.