Mahama endorses SIM re-registration

President John Dramani Mahama has expressed strong support for the government’s renewed SIM card re-registration exercise, describing it as a necessary step toward enhancing national security and safeguarding the integrity of Ghana’s telecommunications sector.

Speaking on the initiative during the Resetting Ghana tour in Sunyani on Thursday, March 19, 2026, Mahama emphasised the importance of maintaining an accurate and reliable database of mobile subscribers.

According to him, a credible SIM registration system plays a crucial role in combating cybercrime, mobile fraud, and other forms of digital-related offenses that have become increasingly prevalent in recent years.

He noted that while previous registration efforts faced challenges—including technical issues and public concerns—the new exercise presents an opportunity to correct past shortcomings and build a more robust system.

Mahama urged authorities to ensure that the process is transparent, efficient, and accessible to all citizens, particularly those in rural and underserved communities.

He also highlighted the need for proper public education ahead of and during the exercise.

He stressed that many Ghanaians may not fully understand the purpose or benefits of re-registration, and that clear communication would help improve participation and compliance.

He explained that the upcoming re-registration exercise will be fully integrated with the Ghana Card to ensure accurate identification of SIM card users.

In addition, Mahama called on telecom operators and regulatory bodies, including the National Communications Authority, to collaborate effectively to ensure a smooth rollout. He encouraged stakeholders to invest in infrastructure and customer support systems to minimise long queues and network disruptions that previously frustrated users.

Mahama further pointed out that a successful SIM re-registration system could boost confidence in Ghana’s digital economy. With more secure and verifiable user data, financial institutions and mobile money service providers can operate with reduced risk, ultimately benefiting consumers and businesses alike.

Earlier, the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, announced that a new SIM registration exercise to be undertaken later this year will deliver a more robust and secure national database to help curb fraud and strengthen national security.

Speaking at a stakeholder engagement in Accra, he said the upcoming exercise would mark a significant departure from previous registration efforts, as it would, for the first time, incorporate biometric verification.

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