By Kadijatu Bangura, Daily Scope
Freetown, October 21, 2025 – The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has successfully distributed National Identity Cards to approximately 120 persons with disabilities (PWDs) from the Pademba Road, Wilberforce Street, and House of Jesus communities. The handover ceremony took place at the NCRA Headquarters on King Harman Road and was attended by key stakeholders, including UNICEF, the Ministry of Social Welfare, Gender and Children’s Affairs, and the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD).
Director General Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi led the event, underscoring the significance of National IDs in facilitating access to essential services such as banking, healthcare, education, and SIM card registration. “These IDs are vital tools for empowerment, ensuring that no one is left behind,” he stated. The initiative was designed to address accessibility barriers by utilizing mobile units and waiving fees for PWDs, fulfilling a commitment made by the NCRA to provide IDs in phases to marginalized communities.
The ceremony showcased the collaborative efforts of partners, including UNICEF and the Ministry of Social Welfare, which ensured that community needs were prioritized. This handover aligns with President Bio’s New Direction Agenda, which emphasizes equity in national development, as outlined in the Medium-Term National Development Plan 2024–2030. DG Massaquoi highlighted, “This event honors His Excellency’s vision to include everyone, particularly the most vulnerable, in building a stronger Sierra Leone.”
Community representatives expressed their gratitude, with one member from the House of Jesus community stating, “These IDs open doors to services we’ve struggled to access. We feel valued and included.” The event highlighted the transformative potential of identification in enhancing economic and social participation for PWDs.
The NCRA remains dedicated to expanding ID access across the nation, marking this handover as a crucial milestone in ensuring equity and opportunity for all Sierra Leoneans.
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