Sam Goerge to Roll Out New Biometric SIM Registration to Combat Fraud and Strengthen Digital Securit

By Ebenezer Adu-Gyamfi & Emmanuel Ayiku | GhanaianNewsCanada | Accra, Ghana | July 16,2026

The Government of Ghana has announced plans to introduce a new nationwide biometric SIM registration exercise aimed at strengthening the security, integrity and reliability of the country’s telecommunications sector.

Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, made the announcement while answering questions on the floor of Parliament, explaining that the new Electronic Communications Numbering Resource Registration exercise is designed to address shortcomings identified during the previous SIM registration programme.

According to the Minister, the upcoming exercise will introduce real-time biometric verification through the National Identification Authority (NIA), ensuring that every SIM card is securely linked to its legitimate owner.

He noted that the improved registration system is expected to significantly reduce crimes associated with mobile telecommunications, including SIM swap fraud, mobile money fraud, identity theft and the use of unregistered or fraudulently acquired SIM cards.

Closing Security Gaps

Hon. Samuel Nartey George explained that while the previous SIM registration exercise succeeded in registering millions of subscribers, several operational and verification gaps remained, making it necessary to implement a more robust and technologically advanced system.

The new registration process will authenticate subscribers instantly against the National Identification Authority’s biometric database, providing greater confidence in the National SIM Register while improving national digital security.

The Minister stressed that the initiative forms part of government’s broader agenda to build a safer and more trusted digital economy as Ghana continues its digital transformation.

Stronger Cybersecurity Measures

Beyond biometric verification, the new registration exercise will also be supported by enhanced cybersecurity safeguards and a strengthened legal framework to better protect consumers.

Government believes these reforms will improve accountability among mobile network operators, enhance data integrity and reduce opportunities for cybercriminals to exploit weaknesses within the telecommunications ecosystem.

The Minister said the reforms are intended to increase public confidence in digital services while protecting citizens who rely on mobile platforms for communication, banking and business transactions.

More Convenient Registration Process

To make the exercise more accessible, government will introduce several customer-friendly registration options.

Subscribers with compatible smartphones will be able to complete portions of the registration process remotely, reducing congestion at registration centres.

Additional registration centres will also be established nationwide, while appointment booking systems and mobile registration teams will be deployed to reach people living in rural and underserved communities.

Officials say these measures are intended to ensure that every eligible subscriber has a convenient opportunity to complete the registration exercise without unnecessary delays.

Supporting Ghana’s Digital Economy

The announcement reflects government’s continued commitment to strengthening Ghana’s digital infrastructure while protecting users against emerging cyber threats.

With mobile phones serving as the backbone for financial transactions, e-government services and everyday communication, authorities believe a secure and credible SIM registration database is essential to safeguarding both consumers and the country’s growing digital economy.

Further details, including the official timetable and implementation guidelines for the nationwide biometric SIM registration exercise, are expected to be announced by the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation in the coming months.