Digital ID Wallet Makes Identification Easier for Millions

Malawi is introducing a digital ID wallet to simplify access to essential services, reduce administrative costs and advance its goal of universal legal identity.

The initiative is “a key step in modernizing identity management in Malawi”, says the National Registration Bureau (NRB), the government agency responsible for national identification.

Launched on 16 September 2026, the Nzika Digital ID Wallet allows citizens to store digital versions of their national ID cards on their smartphones, with the same legal validity as physical cards. With over 13.5 million people registered and national ID coverage reaching 99%, the country is approaching its goal of universal identification ahead of the United Nations’ 2030 target. The wallet is expected to reduce card-printing costs, shorten processing times and strengthen the country’s digital infrastructure.