The issuance of National ID Cards (NIC) in Cameroon continues to be a major hurdle for many citizens, despite repeated government announcements and new initiatives.
On January 10, 2025, the General Delegate for National Security, Martin Mbarga Nguélé, urged citizens facing difficulties obtaining ID Cards to report their concerns to regional delegations.
However, frustrations persist, with promises of streamlined systems, such as the one proposed by Augentic GmbH in May 2024, yet to materialize.
Official Chant vs. Reality
In his January 10 circular, Mbarga Nguélé encouraged citizens to provide detailed information, including their telephone numbers and email addresses, when submitting complaints about ID Card delays.
Citizens can make these submissions at the regional delegations or via the Directorate General of National Security (DGSN) website.
The DGSN also directed citizens to follow the radio program Canal Police on the national radio (88.8 FM) for updates and guidance.
Despite these measures, the lived reality for many Cameroonians tells a different story.
Administrative bottlenecks and prolonged delays remain widespread, leaving citizens frustrated and vulnerable.
Benita Ngum, a 28-year-old from Bamenda, has spent years trying to obtain a valid national ID Card without success.
“I even traveled to Yaoundé to resolve the issue, but nothing changed. They keep saying there are inconsistencies in my information. It’s a serious threat to my safety because I’m harassed by security forces despite having a laissez-passer,” she shared.
Some Cameroonians argue that the government prioritizes passports for those leaving the country over issuing ID Cards for residents.
“It’s absurd that getting a passport to leave the country is easier than obtaining an ID card to prove your identity here. Does the government want everyone to leave?” questioned Andy Mbua, a resident of Buea.
Augentic’s Unrealized Promise for Swift ID Cards
In May 2024, Labinot Carreti, Managing Director of Augentic GmbH, unveiled an ambitious plan to issue NICs within 48 hours.
The announcement raised hopes across the country, as citizens envisioned an end to the prolonged delays.
However, as 2025 begins, this promise remains unfulfilled, leaving many disappointed.
While efforts to address the national ID Cards crisis continue, the disconnect between official measures and citizens’ experiences highlights the need for urgent and effective solutions.
Cameroonians continue to wait, not only for their identity cards but also for the fulfillment of long-standing promises of efficiency and reform.
