Government Announces Fresh Nationwide SIM Registration Exercise to Address Past Flaws
The Government of Ghana has given the green light for a completely new nationwide SIM card registration exercise, Communications Minister Samuel Nartey George has announced.
The decision follows a comprehensive review of the previous registration process, which encountered significant issues including lax biometric checks, inconsistent data records, and widespread registration fraud.
Minister George made the announcement during high-level engagements with the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications and the National Communications Authority (NCA). The discussions also covered Ghana’s ongoing preparations and roadmap for the commercial rollout of 5G technology across the country.
The minister stressed that the upcoming SIM registration will represent a full reset rather than a mere update to the existing system.
“This initiative aims to restore credibility, strengthen security, and ensure data integrity in Ghana’s mobile communications sector,” he said.
The revamped framework includes several key features designed to tighten controls and improve reliability:
The NCA will establish and manage a centralized data repository to serve as the single authoritative hub for all SIM registration information nationwide.
Mandatory biometric verification will be enforced for every new registration and re-verification process, aiming to eliminate fraud and impersonation.
A Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) will be introduced, allowing authorities to block stolen, lost, or fraudulently used devices across all mobile networks.
A revised Legislative Instrument (L.I.) is currently being prepared to provide the necessary legal backing and clear guidelines for the entire exercise.
The government views the new SIM registration drive as a critical step toward enhancing mobile network security, protecting consumers from identity theft and fraud, and creating a more robust foundation for the secure deployment of advanced technologies such as 5G.
Mobile subscribers and service providers are expected to receive further details on the timeline, registration procedures, and compliance requirements in the coming weeks as preparations advance.
The move reflects the government’s broader commitment to modernizing Ghana’s digital and telecommunications infrastructure while prioritizing public safety and data protection.
