Biometrics refers to using unique physical or behavioural characteristics to identify individuals. In recent years, biometric technology has become increasingly popular in various sectors, including e-government services. Tanzania is one of the countries that have embraced biometric technology in its e-government services. This paper explores the role of biometrics in e-government services in Tanzania, including its benefits, challenges, and prospects.
Tanzania is a country located in East Africa with over 60 million people. The country has made significant strides in developing its e-government services recently. The government has implemented various initiatives aimed at improving service delivery to its citizens, including the use of biometric technology.
The use of biometric technology in Tanzania’s e-government services began in 2010 with the introduction of the National Identification Authority (NIDA). NIDA is responsible for issuing national identification cards to Tanzanian citizens and residents. The identification cards contain biometric data, including fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris scans.
Since then, the use of biometric technology has expanded to other areas of e-government services, including voter registration, passport issuance, and social security services. The government has also implemented biometric systems in the health sector to improve patient identification and reduce medical errors.
Benefits of Biometrics in E-Government Services
The use of biometric technology in e-government services in Tanzania has numerous benefits, including:
Improved Service Delivery
Biometric technology has improved service delivery in various e-government services in Tanzania. For instance, using biometric systems in voter registration has reduced the incidence of multiple registrations and voter impersonation. This has led to more accurate voter rolls and improved election integrity. Similarly, using biometric systems in passport issuance has reduced the incidence of passport fraud and improved the efficiency of the passport application process.
Enhanced Security
It provides a high level of security in e-government services. Biometric data is unique to each individual, making it difficult for fraudsters to impersonate someone else. This has reduced the incidence of identity theft and other forms of fraud in e-government services.
Increased Efficiency
Using this technology has increased the efficiency of e-government services in Tanzania. Systems can process large amounts of data quickly and accurately, reducing the time and resources required to provide services to citizens. For instance, using biometric systems in social security services has reduced the time it takes to verify beneficiaries’ identities and disburse payments. This has improved the efficiency of the social security system and reduced the incidence of fraud.
Improved Data Management
This technology has improved data management in e-government services in Tanzania. Biometric data is stored in a centralized database, making it easier to manage and access. This has improved the accuracy and completeness of data in e-government services, leading to better decision-making and policy formulation.
Challenges of Biometrics in E-Government Services
Despite the numerous benefits of biometric technology in e-government services, some challenges need to be addressed. These challenges include:
High Costs
The implementation of biometric systems in e-government services can be costly. The cost of acquiring and maintaining biometric systems can be a significant barrier to their adoption, especially in developing countries like Tanzania.
Technical Challenges
These systems require specialized technical expertise to design, implement, and maintain. This can be a challenge in countries with limited technical capacity and resources.
Privacy Concerns
Using this technology raises privacy concerns, especially regarding the collection, storage, and use of data. There is a risk that biometric data could be misused or accessed by unauthorized persons, leading to identity theft and other forms of fraud.
Cultural Barriers
This technology may face cultural barriers in some communities in Tanzania. For instance, some communities may be reluctant to provide biometric data due to cultural beliefs and practices.
Future Prospects of Biometrics in E-Government Services
Despite the challenges, the government has recognized the importance of technology in improving service delivery and has made significant investments in its adoption.
The government has also implemented policies and regulations to address the challenges associated with biometric technology, such as privacy concerns and technical challenges. For instance, the government has established the Data Protection Commission to oversee the collection, storage, and use of personal data, including biometric data.
In addition, the government has partnered with international organizations and development partners to build technical capacity and provide financial support for adopting biometric technology in e-government services.
Using technology in e-government services in Tanzania has numerous benefits, including improved service delivery, enhanced security, increased efficiency, and improved data management. However, some challenges need to be addressed, such as high costs, technical challenges, privacy concerns, and cultural barriers.
The prospects of this technology in e-government services in Tanzania are promising, and the government has invested significantly in its adoption. The government’s efforts to address the challenges associated with biometric technology, such as privacy concerns and technical challenges, are commendable and will go a long way in ensuring the successful adoption of technology in e-government services.
Also read: Embracing Technology: Transforming Tanzanian Business for Growth.
