AI4D - Digital and Biometric Identity Systems

This policy paper examines issues emerging around the deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Digital and Biometric Identities (BDI) being rolled out across Africa as a central part of digital strategies to meet the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

SDGs Target 16.9 aims: “to provide legal identity for all, including birth registration by the year 2030″. Digital identity is also seen as key to unlocking various other development goals including universal health and education access, and financial inclusion. BDI systems present opportunities for enhancing the visibility of benefectors of social services, enhancing efficiencies in digital transacting, and a variety of other potential social and digital economy benefits.