Why Having an ID Matters: Unlocking Opportunities and Protecting Your Rights
Loraine Phiri
Obtaining an identity document (ID) for many young adults, marks a crucial turning point. A new chapter filled with possibilities. But without a valid ID, these opportunities can remain locked away. From education and employment to healthcare and voting, an ID is essential for unlocking your full potential and safeguarding fundamental rights as a citizen. Yet, countless individuals lack this vital document due to various barriers, including missing documentation, unawareness of ID importance, long queues at the Civil Registry and even dislike for temporary “green passes” issued due to civil registry shortages of consumables needed for producing national identity documents.
Nobukhosi Dube recently secured her ID after attending a WILD’s access to documentation (ADT) community awareness outreach in Makokoba
“The process was slow but l am relieved that I finally got an ID. I received a green waiting pass and was told I can come and exchange for the plastic one once they have consumables. I am excited that I can now apply for scholarships, to study and even open a bank account,” she said.
Thabani Ndlovu shared similar sentiments. “Without an ID, I couldn’t retake exams or even get considered for employment opportunities,” he said. “Now I have hope for a better future.”
Unfortunately for Clarisa Ncube who had come to exchange her temporary pass she discovered Pumula Housing Office civil registry center was still facing a shortage of consumables and issuing temporary green passes.
“I wanted to exchange my green waiting pass for a polythene ID card. Some financial institutions and scholarships refuse to acknowledge the temporary ID. “It’s frustrating,” she voiced, echoing the concerns of many who find these temporary passes limiting their access to certain opportunities.
When one does not possess civil registration documents, they face a lot of challenges. Education becomes impossible without proper enrolment documents, hindering your future prospects. Even basic rights like voting and property ownership are restricted. This lack of documentation creates a vicious cycle of disadvantage, limiting access to healthcare, financial services, and ultimately, a fulfilling life. Get your ID now, even if you receive a temporary green waiting pass. The temporary green pass is accepted as valid proof of identity in many situations but it’s important to secure your permanent plastic card as soon as the Civil Registry has consummables. Visit any of the following Civil Registry Centres in Bulawayo to get an ID if you are 16 years old: Emsitheli at Drill Hall, Pumula, Entumbane and Nketa Housing Offices, and Tredgold Civil Registry Office.