Norwegian Envoy Commends Malawi's National Registration Progress
Since 2016, the Norwegian government has supported the Malawi government with $3 million in establishing the national registration and identification system, where the NRB issues IDs.
KARONGA, Malawi— The Royal Norwegian Ambassador to Malawi, Ingrid Marie Mikelsen, has lauded the progress made in the national registration and identification systems by the National Registration Bureau (NRB), commending efforts to enhance efficiency and effectiveness, writes Lusekero Mhango.
During a visit to the district NRB offices in Karonga on Tuesday, Mikelsen interacted with staff and clients processing identification cards.
She expressed satisfaction with how support from her government is helping many Malawians acquire national IDs.
"This progress is especially crucial as Malawi prepares for the general election next year. We want to ensure that as many people as possible have IDs so they can exercise their right to vote," Mikelsen said.
Since 2016, the Norwegian government has supported the Malawi government with $3 million in establishing the national registration and identification system, where the NRB issues IDs, birth, and death certificates.
Mphatso Sambo, the Principal Secretary for NRB in the Ministry of Homeland Security, highlighted the importance of international cooperation in enhancing Malawi's national registration and identification system.
"The ID issuance system is efficient and fast, minimizing waiting times for clients to get their cards, which is encouraging," said Florence Muzumara, a local resident.
The visit comes as Malawi intensifies efforts to register and issue identification documents to its citizens ahead of the 2025 general elections, seen as crucial for the consolidation of the country's democracy.