Lesotho government is faced with a challenge to develop a reliable identification card system to give Basotho a unique identity.

The Deputy Prime Minister (DPM), Mr. Lesao Lehohla said this at a one day workshop to sensitise participants on the government's plan to introduce Lesotho National Identification Card system in Maseru on Tuesday.

Mr. Lehohla highlighted that the introduction of an ID Card will address unnecessary delays encountered by the public on issuance of passports, births and deaths certificates, being the current problem in the country.

He said when in place, citizens will use the card for services such as banking, insurance claims and contract bidding.

'Basotho will then use passports, the only identification document they have for the intended purpose of traveling outside the country,' he said.

DPM further said though Lesotho will be a late-comer in the introduction of the ID Card solution, Lesotho will still be one of the leading countries in Africa to explore its implementation.

He urged participants to ensure that they organise comprehensive public awareness programmes to define citizens’ needs and sensitise them on the intended implementation of the ID Cards.

Furthermore, Mr. Lehohla said government is facilitating the establishment of credit bureau through the Millennium Challenge Account for finance access and contribution to the country's economic growth.

'This will also enhance the bilateral cooperation between Lesotho and other SADC countries both at political and economic levels,' the Minister said.

Speaking at the same occasion, the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC)-Lesotho Resident Country Director, Dr Gene MacDonald said they are pleased to be working with Lesotho government through the Ministry of Home Affairs and Public Safety to introduce the ID Cards for Basotho.

She commended the government for the initiative, pledging their commitment to support government in its implementation, saying introduction of the ID Cards will facilitate cooperation within the African region as well as to play a vital role in reducing poverty among Basotho.

Participants are from different government ministries. They are expected to share ideas leading to the implementation of a reliable ID Card solution in the country.

Source: LENA 17/06/2008