IMANI Seeks Details on New SIM Registration Policy

Policy think tank IMANI Africa has filed a Right to Information (RTI) request to the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, demanding full disclosure on the government’s upcoming nationwide SIM registration exercise slated for early 2026.

The request, submitted on Monday, December 8, 2025, seeks detailed documentation on the legal foundation, technical specifications, biometric verification protocols, procurement processes, and oversight mechanisms for the new registration regime. IMANI confirmed the Ministry’s secretary received the application.

According to IMANI, the move is crucial to ensure transparency, legality, and robust data protection for Ghanaians. The think tank emphasized the public’s right to know how their biometric data will be collected, stored, and secured under the new system.

“Ghanaians deserve clarity on how their sensitive information will be handled,” a statement from IMANI read. “We have concerns regarding governance, the potential cost to taxpayers, and the involvement of private vendors.”

IMANI is invoking Article 21(1)(f) of the 1992 Constitution and the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989) to support its request. These provisions guarantee citizens access to information held by state institutions.

The think tank specifically requested access to the legal instruments authorizing the SIM registry, a comprehensive outline of the verification architecture, details of selected vendors, and all agreements pertaining to citizen data management.

IMANI views the RTI application as a proactive measure to safeguard transparency and protect the rights of mobile phone users. The group stressed that public trust hinges on assurances that data-sharing protocols and privacy safeguards align with both national and international standards.

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