Mogadishu (KAAB TV) — The Ministry of Aviation and Air Transport of the Federal Government of Somalia has announced a significant policy shift: going forward, all services provided by the Ministry will require individuals and entities to present a valid National Identity Card issued by the National Identification and Registration Agency (NIRA).
This directive was formally announced following a resolution passed during the Council of Ministers’ meeting held on April 7, 2025. The decision reflects a broader government effort to standardize access to public services through a unified identification system.
In its official press release, the Ministry underscored that services such as the issuance of driver’s licenses, vehicle registrations, and other transport-related matters will now only be accessible to individuals who possess a valid Somali National ID.
“Anyone who wishes to receive services from the Ministry, including but not limited to obtaining a driver’s license, registering a vehicle, or other transport-related services, must first present a National Identity Card,” the statement emphasized.
This requirement also extends to public transportation companies and their stakeholders, who must ensure compliance with the new regulation. Shareholders and business operators within the transport sector are expected to verify and align their operations with the Ministry’s updated identification standards.
The Ministry clarified that this move is part of the broader implementation of Somalia’s National Transformation Plan, which was ratified in March 2025. The plan aims to improve national security, ensure transparent service delivery, and enhance the recognition and protection of Somali citizens within both governmental and commercial frameworks.
Officials highlighted that linking public services to the National Identity Card system will not only streamline administrative processes but also play a critical role in combating fraud, enhancing accountability, and supporting national development goals.
The government encourages all citizens and service providers to obtain their national IDs promptly to avoid disruptions in access to essential aviation and transportation services.
Read the ministry’s full statement below:-
