Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips announced on Tuesday that the commencement order has been issued to bring the Digital Identity Card Act of 2023 into full operation as of March 31, 2026.
Speaking in a video message posted to his official social media, the Prime Minister described the development as a major step forward in modernising how the Government delivers services to citizens across Guyana.
“Citizens of Guyana, I am pleased to announce that in accordance with the Digital Identity Card Act of 2023, the commencement order has been issued, bringing the Act into full operation as of today, March 31, 2026. This marks a major step forward in modernising how the Government serves you,” Phillips stated.
The Prime Minister said the foundational requirements for implementation have already been met, including the appointment of a Data Protection Commission, the establishment of a secure system and database for capturing and storing citizen information, and the creation of a system to produce and issue digital ID cards.
He noted that the enrolment process will rely primarily on data already submitted to state agencies, describing it as a seamless experience that avoids requiring citizens to provide unfamiliar information.
On data privacy, Phillips sought to reassure the public, stating that privacy remains the Government’s absolute priority. He added that more sensitive personal data will only be requested once the Data Protection Act comes into full force and effect.
Registry offices are currently operational at four locations: Cotton Field and Anna Regina in Region Two, the West Central Mall in Leonora in Region Three, Campbellville in Region Four, and Fort Wellington on the West Coast of Berbice in Region Five. Plans are underway to extend the rollout to the remaining six administrative regions.
The Digital Identity Card Act of 2023 was passed as part of the Government’s broader digital transformation agenda. The legislation provides the legal framework for a national digital identification system enabling citizens to verify their identity electronically for government and, eventually, private sector services. The initiative is expected to streamline transactions, reduce fraud, and improve service delivery across sectors including healthcare, finance, and public administration.
SOURCE: Kaieteur News, “Digital ID cards now in full operation,” April 1, 2026
