The Ministry of Justice has noted a challenge with the newly introduced mobile birth registration application, receiving only about two applications monthly via the platform. During discussions with the Standing Committee on Justice, Law, and Human Rights regarding the ministry’s annual reports for 2019-2022, Collin Yabaki, the Director of Corporate Services, explained that while the initiative has improved the birth registration process for parents in urban and semi-urban areas, rural and maritime regions continue to struggle with accessing the digital service.
Yabaki emphasized that limited internet connectivity and geographical isolation are significant barriers for many families in these areas. To address this issue, the ministry is deploying awareness teams to remote locations to ensure that citizens are informed and able to register their births, aiming to leave no one behind.
Despite the digital solution available, adoption remains low, with many residents in rural zones and overseas citizens still unaware of the service. Yabaki highlighted that registering through the app is free, including the first certificate, which provides an incentive for parents to utilize this convenient option and avoid delays in birth registration.
The ministry is also considering on-the-ground demonstrations in remote areas to promote the application and increase engagement.
This initiative, while facing obstacles, holds potential for improvement and inclusivity as the ministry actively seeks ways to reach underserved populations. It reflects a commitment to modernizing public services and ensuring that all citizens have equal access to important registration processes. With further outreach and awareness efforts, it is hopeful that more families will benefit from this convenient digital solution in the future.
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