KINGSTON, Jamaica – Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has called on all Jamaicans to participate in the National Identification System (NIDS) to receive their new national identification cards, emphasizing the role the initiative plays in Jamaica’s digital future.
In a significant development on Friday, the first group of citizens received their national ID cards at the NIRA Service Centre located at the Central Sorting Office in Kingston. This marks the beginning of a major transformation in how the country manages its personal identification and public services.
“This is a groundbreaking day for Jamaica. After decades of discussion, we are now witnessing the realization of a vision that will modernize and secure the way Jamaicans interact with government and business,” Holness declared. He stressed that the new identification system is a critical step in positioning the island as a digital leader in the region.
The Prime Minister described the initiative as a key component of the nation’s ongoing digital transformation. He highlighted that the new national ID card will not only streamline administrative processes but also enhance the security and reliability of transactions across multiple sectors.
“This card represents empowerment for every Jamaican. It simplifies interactions with government services, improves efficiency, and lays the groundwork for a modern society where individuals have more control over their personal data,” Holness added.
The national identification card is designed to create a comprehensive and secure database, capturing the details of citizens and non-nationals residing in Jamaica. The system is expected to facilitate smoother, faster services, ensuring that citizens can access government services with ease and confidence.
A variety of citizens, including those from diverse professions and backgrounds, were among the first to receive their cards, including members of the Jamaica Council of Persons with Disabilities, as well as professionals from the police, banking, and religious sectors.
Prime Minister Holness also announced that additional enrollment centers will be opening across the island. These centers, set to launch in late January 2025, will provide easy access for Jamaicans to enroll in the system. By the end of the 2025/2026 financial year, 15 new locations are expected to be operational, including sites in Montego Bay, Mandeville, Falmouth, and May Pen.
“By making these services more accessible, we are ensuring that every Jamaican has the opportunity to benefit from the security and convenience that the National ID system offers,” Holness concluded.
