The National Identification Authority has announced the resumption of Ghana Card registration for children aged 6 to 14 in the Volta Region and Oti Region, effective Tuesday, May 5, 2026.
The exercise, being carried out in collaboration with the National Health Insurance Authority, forms part of a nationwide initiative targeting approximately 3.1 million children to strengthen Ghana’s national identification system.
According to the NIA, the Volta and Oti Regions mark the start of a phased nationwide rollout, with each phase expected to last at least 21 days. Registration teams will move from school to school, covering both public and private institutions to ensure broad access.
The Authority noted that the programme aims to deepen inclusion by enrolling children early into the national database. Registration will run daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., while out-of-school children can visit designated centres within their communities.
Requirements for Registration
Parents and guardians are required to present valid identification documents for children, including birth certificates, Ghanaian passports, or certificates of acquired citizenship. In cases where these documents are unavailable, an oath of identity may be completed.
The NIA emphasised that “all persons presenting children must be Ghanaian, at least 18 years old, and in possession of a valid Ghana Card,” reinforcing the need for compliance with registration guidelines.
Additionally, parents are encouraged to provide their child’s National Health Insurance Scheme details to support integration across national systems.
Call for Participation and Compliance
The Authority has urged parents, guardians, and social welfare officers in both regions to take full advantage of the exercise, describing it as critical to building a secure and inclusive identity framework.
It also warned against fraudulent practices, stating that “providing false information or facilitating the registration of a non-Ghanaian is an offence punishable by law.”
The initiative underscores the NIA’s commitment to expanding Ghana’s identity infrastructure and ensuring that every citizen is captured within a reliable and secure system from an early age.
Officials say the exercise will play a key role in improving access to public services and enhancing national planning through accurate population data.
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