Djibouti launches national digital identity project

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye

Djibouti has formally launched its national digital identity project, known as Mobile ID, marking a major milestone in the country’s drive to build a modern, secure and sovereign digital state.

The launch took place during a National Forum organized by the Ministry of the Interior in collaboration with the Ministry of Digital Economy and Innovation, under the high patronage of President Ismail Omar Guelleh. The event was attended by senior government officials, representatives of national institutions, and key technical partners.

The Mobile ID initiative reflects the level of maturity reached in Djibouti’s digital transformation journey and underscores ongoing efforts to modernize public administration and improve service delivery through digital technologies. It is aligned with the government’s broader strategy to establish a trusted digital ecosystem that supports efficiency, security, and citizen-centric governance.

Officials highlighted that the project builds on foundational reforms already undertaken by the state, including the adoption of a comprehensive Digital Code to provide a robust legal and regulatory framework for digital services and secure electronic transactions. The development of a sovereign digital infrastructure, anchored by the national cloud, was also cited as a critical step in strengthening the country’s digital autonomy.

The initiative is further supported by enhanced cybersecurity measures, including the establishment of a National Cybersecurity Authority and the implementation of a national strategy to address digital threats. These measures are intended to ensure trust, resilience, and protection as digital services expand.

At the core of the reform is the unification of public digital services around a single digital identity, positioning Mobile ID as the gateway to accessing government services. The system enables citizens to prove their identity securely in digital environments, simplifies access to public services, strengthens confidence in digital transactions, and supports innovation, financial inclusion, and the growth of the digital economy.

Authorities emphasized that the Mobile ID project is not a standalone initiative but a cornerstone of Djibouti’s long-term digital transformation agenda. It represents a concrete step toward realizing the “Djibouti 2035” vision, which positions digital technology as a key lever for strengthening institutional efficiency, enhancing trust, and bringing public administration closer to citizens.