NIIMs is a noble idea, but protect our data

Last week, the High Court delivered a decision on the constitutionality of the National Integrated Identity Management System (NIIMS), popularly known as Huduma Namba. The court found that some of its provisions such as the collection of DNA and GPS were overly invasive and unnecessary for national registration purposes hence, unconstitutional. The court, however, found that the collection of other biometric information such as facial data, iris and fingerprints was sufficient for purposes of national registration.

The court allowed the government to continue the roll-out of Huduma Namba on condition that it sets up an appropriate and comprehensive regulatory framework on data protection. It added that the framework must meet international standards on data protection which include publishing of appropriate rules and regulations, the appointment of an independent Data Protection Commissioner and formation of a secretariat.