In a move aimed at transforming South Africa’s Home Affairs system and addressing long-standing issues, Deputy Minister Njabulo Nzuza announced plans to digitise the department’s services. This ambitious project aims to streamline processes, reduce service delays, and crack down on illegal immigration, all while enhancing national security.

Speaking recently, Nzuza reiterated that the digitisation of Home Affairs is central to improving efficiency and accessibility. “We are trying to build a digital Home Affairs where people can apply for documents from the comfort of their homes,” Nzuza said. This system, dubbed “Home Affairs from Home,” will allow citizens to use online platforms and apps to apply for vital documents like IDs and passports without needing to visit physical offices.

Extended Hours for Matriculants

In the short term, Home Affairs has already extended its operating hours to include Saturdays from September 21 to October 12. This initiative targets matriculants who need to apply for and collect their IDs ahead of their final exams. Over 2,800 staff members will be on duty across 321 offices nationwide to ensure students can access the services they need.

Nzuza highlighted that over 600,000 IDs remain uncollected, with around 140,000 being first-time issuances. “We urge people to collect their IDs. We want to make sure everyone is ready for the exam season,” he said.

Digitisation to Speed Up Services

The push for a digital transformation is driven by the need to reduce the long queues and slow service delivery that have plagued Home Affairs offices for years. With many South Africans frustrated by the inefficiency, Nzuza assured the public that technological investments are underway to ensure a more responsive system.

“We are investing heavily in technology to improve the speed of our services and reduce bottlenecks. Biometrics and other digital tools will help us run our offices more effectively,” he said.

Boosting National Security and the Economy

Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, also weighed in on the benefits of digitisation, emphasizing its role in bolstering national security. Schreiber stated that automating and digitising the department’s services would not only streamline processes but also secure the country’s borders against illegal immigration.

During the RMB Morgan Stanley Investor Conference, Schreiber noted, “The only way to turn Home Affairs into a department that supercharges economic growth, delivers dignified civic services, and secures national security is by urgently embracing automation and digital transformation.”

The department’s commitment to digitisation also comes in the wake of high-profile cases of identity fraud, including the case of Miss Universe Nigeria Chiddima Adetshina’s mother, who was allegedly involved in identity theft. These incidents have raised concerns about the integrity of the national population register, which Schreiber believes digitisation can help safeguard.

A Brighter Future for Home Affairs

As the department pushes forward with its plans to modernise, Nzuza hinted at further developments, noting that exciting announcements are on the horizon. “The minister is very passionate about delivering services right to your doorstep,” Nzuza added.

With a focus on modern technology, Home Affairs is set to enter a new era, where citizens can access essential services faster and more securely. This transformation promises to not only enhance convenience but also reinforce South Africa’s stance on illegal immigration and economic growth.

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