Government is working around the clock to fix the disruption challenges in the issuance of national identity cards.
Ministry of Home Affairs Communications Officer Mlandvo Dlamini said they were in talks with a South African-based company HDI Systems, the company behind the installation and modernisation of the ID card issuance system, to restore full functionality.
Eswatini Observer WhatsApp Channel
Dlamini assured the public that efforts were underway to resolve the technical breakdown that had temporarily halted ID production across the country. “The company has indicated that an upfront payment is needed for the necessary repairs and upgrades. We are still awaiting guidance from government regarding the available budget for this purpose.” he stated.
He said he was aware that this issue was now a crisis but there was no way they could flout the procurement process.
“The procurement process is standard and should be followed at all times. We are trying our level best to have this issue resolved.” He said the situation was complicated by the fact that the machine in question was now an older model, making it challenging to procure replacement parts.
Dlamini pointed out that the most effective solution may involve replacing the entire system, a decision that was unfortunately beyond the ministry’s control.
READ MORE: E58 000 ‘stokvel’ savings stolen from trunk
He said the most frustrating part was that there were currently no viable alternatives to the existing machine, worsening the difficulties faced in issuing identity cards.
“The ministry is keen to resolve these issues as quickly as possible to ensure that citizens receive their identity cards without further delays. We are aware of the problems this is causing and apologise for the inconvenience,” he said.
Dlamini emphasised the importance of the identity card system and its role in facilitating access to essential services for the public.
“As discussions with HDI Systems continue, the ministry of home affairs remains committed to finding a timely solution to the ongoing challenges presented by the aging technology,” he said.
Passport delays blamed on outdated machine
THE ministry of home affairs is also facing challenges in its services delivery, particularly in the issuance of travel documents.
The communication officer highlighted that the current passport issuance machine was also outdated.
However, Dlamini expressed hope that the issues surrounding the machine would soon be resolved, paving the way for a more streamlined process.
In addition to the challenges with the passport machine, Dlamini emphasised the ministry’s commitment to implementing the Integrated System for Civil Migration.
He said he believed that this new system would significantly enhance their operations.
“Once we fully integrate this system, we anticipate that most of the problems we currently face will become a thing of the past,” he stated.
Dlamini said the ministry was determined to improve its services and provide citizens with a more efficient experience when it comes to civil documentation, including passports.
He said with the promise of new technology and a more modern approach, there was cautious hopefulness about the future of civil migration services. “As these changes are implemented, we hope that the ministry will meet the growing demands of the public and enhance overall satisfaction within the ministry’s services,” he said.
Eswatini Observer Press Reader | View Here
