Accra:The iconic green barcoded identity book, a significant symbol of South African history and heritage, is set to be phased out by 2028. For many South Africans, this document represents both the legacy of the country's democratic transition in 1994 and the painful history of apartheid.
According to South African Government News Agency, the green ID book was used as an instrument of apartheid to enforce discriminatory laws and control the movement of black people. However, post-1994, it became a symbol of the new democratic dispensation, enabling millions to vote in the first democratic elections and access essential services and rights.
The government is encouraging citizens to transition to the Smart ID, which offers enhanced security features, including a secure digital chip and biometric information. This move is part of a broader digital transformation initiative aimed at modernizing the national ID system and addressing long-standing service challenges.
The Department of Home Affairs has partnered with major banks to facilitate the transition, allowing citizens to apply for or replace Smart ID cards at bank branches. By August 2026, more than 574,371 Smart ID applications had been processed through these partnerships, demonstrating the potential of digital innovation to improve service delivery.
The shift away from the paper-based green ID book to the digital Smart ID card is not just about technological advancement but also about making identity verification more secure and reliable. As South Africa prepares for upcoming elections, citizens are urged to collect their Smart ID cards promptly to ensure their right to vote.