Vanuatu Pushes Forward with Digital ID as Algeria Charts eSIM Expansion
Vanuatu is moving decisively towards a public digital identity system, marking a major step in the country’s ongoing digital metamorphosis.
The Pacific islet nation has launched a public discussion to upgrade the non-supervisory framework for the new action.
Authorities are engaging with stakeholders to perfect the draft Digital Transformation Bill, which will bolster the country’s digital ID system.
John Jack, director of the Department of Communication and Digital Information (DCDT), confirmed that key improvements are being made to the legislation.
Jack said, “The DCDT is seeking input from key ecosystem players, academia, and the general public on the ideal method to float a digital ID system for the country.”
Data security, sequestration, and controlled third-party access are central enterprises. The DCDT verified that facial recognition will form the backbone of the digital ID platform, which will be integrated with the UNDP-supported civil enrollment program.
“The consultation process will cover issues of inclusion and interoperability across key sectors of the national economy,” Jack added, highlighting a particular focus on healthcare and education.
Past initiatives have attempted to replace provincial hospital patient numbers with a national identifier, underlining the importance of sector-wide utility.
The consultation aims to evaluate the nation’s readiness to adopt a digital ID. With digital literacy levels among the lowest globally, the DCDT is planning outreach and awareness campaigns to bring citizens on board.
Despite a slow start, Vanuatu has reached key milestones. In early October, the DCDT partnered with Engineering Business Services Limited and Code 200 Solutions to support the technical design and development of the system.
Vanuatu’s move towards digitalization extends beyond IDs. After times of debate, the government has dropped its ban on public digital currencies, responding to rising public interest in Bitcoin and stablecoins.
Beforehand, this time, a digital asset frame was passed, furnishing guidance on licensing and operations for crypto service providers.
Other Pacific nations are now following suit, exploring digital means to diversify husbandry heavily reliant on tourism and fisheries.
Meanwhile, Algeria is preparing to introduce eSIM technology as part of a broader digital modernization of its telecom sector. The action comes months after the government banned digital means nationwide.
Syed Ali Zarouqi, Minister of Post, Wire, and Wireless Transport, convened a high- position meeting with crucial assiduity stakeholders to bandy integration strategies.
Zarouqi said, “In the coming years, eSIMs will make up a significant chunk of the market as the country targets the gradual phase-out of physical SIM cards.”
eSIMs are embedded directly into bias, offering consumers the capability to manage multiple lines on a single handset and switch carriers seamlessly.
The technology promises enhanced digital security and functional effectiveness, particularly for trip, automotive, and logistics sectors.
“The eSIM initiative will offer improved digital security for holders without compromising service delivery,” he added, urging telecom operators and regulators to collaborate closely and follow international standards.
Although the government promotes eSIM relinquishment, it maintains strict restrictions on cryptocurrency and digital asset use, pressing a conservative approach to fiscal digitization.
Across Africa, the telecom sector is embracing emerging technologies to boost effectiveness. The African Telecommunications Union has partnered with London’s Metaverse Institute to foster metaverse relinquishment.
Meanwhile, artificial intelligence is becoming a focal point for operators, with South Korea’s KT and India’s DoT investing heavily in AI and digital twin technologies to future-proof networks.
