The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) encourages Africa to adopt digital identities since biometrics can give a 'reliable and secure' method of authenticating identity.

The organisation believes biometrics are an important component of digital identity systems, particularly in places like Africa where traditional means of identification may be lacking.

The move comes as the UNDP works with countries across Africa, including Somalia, Zambia, and Ethiopia, to adopt the Model Governance Framework for Digital Legal Identity.

The framework, according to UNDP, was developed to ensure that any effort to digitalise legal identity comes with robust protection of human rights, personal data, and privacy.

Further, according to the organisation, the goal of working with African countries is to help establish inclusive, rights-based digital identity systems suited to each country's individual needs and conditions.

“The UNDP Model Governance Framework for Digital Legal Identity emphasises the importance of designing digital identity systems that are resilient to infrastructure challenges,” says Hendrina Shikalepo communication analyst for the UN Namibia.

She tells ITWeb Africa: “This includes leveraging offline capabilities and ensuring that identity verification can occur without constant internet access. Additionally, the framework encourages the use of decentralised and mobile-based solutions to mitigate the impact of limited electricity and internet connectivity.”

However, she says the UNDP framework stresses the need for robust data protection and privacy measures to safeguard biometric data and ensure it is used ethically and responsibly.

Shikalepo explains: “Protecting biometric data from cyber threats is a key concern addressed by the UNDP framework.

“It includes guidelines for implementing strong cybersecurity measures, such as encryption, secure data storage, and regular security audits.

“Additionally, the framework advocates for comprehensive data protection laws and practices to ensure the privacy and security of biometric information.”

In conclusion, she says: “Adopting the UNDP Model Governance Framework is crucial for African nations as it provides a comprehensive guide to developing digital identity systems that are inclusive, secure, and respectful of human rights.

“The framework, which is a ‘whole of society’ approach helps ensure that digital identity initiatives contribute to sustainable development goals by promoting access to services, enhancing economic opportunities, and protecting individual rights.”