Ethio Telecom announced it has registered 5.5 million people for the national digital identification (FAYDA) program. Over 427,000 ID cards have already been printed and distributed.
Solomon Abera, Ethio Telecom's Chief Customer Experience and Quality Officer, stated that the company is working to realize a digital Ethiopia. A partnership with the National Identification Program allows for digital ID registration in 275 cities. He highlighted that Ethio Telecom has registered 5.5 million citizens out of a total of 11.5 million registered nationwide for the digital ID.
Solomon further explained that Ethio Telecom is accelerating the printing process by introducing machines capable of printing up to 48 million IDs annually. Each ID card has a 10-year lifespan. Card distribution has already reached Addis Ababa, Adama, Hawassa, Nekemte, and Wolayita Sodo. Ethio Telecom aims to expand this service nationwide by mid-February.
Over 427,000 ID cards have been printed and distributed to the public since the printing process began over two months ago. There are 63 card collection points in Addis Ababa alone, where recipients can pay via Telebirr.
Testimonies from citizens, including Getachew Alemu and Bante Genet, praised the efficient service received throughout the registration and collection process.