Staff Reporter
The Civil Registry Department has announced that the Government, through Treasury, has released US$3 million to settle part of the outstanding allowances owed to members who participated in the 2023 national mobile registration mop-up exercise.
In a press statement issued yesterday, the Department said, “Members who participated in this initiative were entitled to allowances, and they were partially paid. The Department is pleased to announce that Government, through Treasury, has, however, released a total of USD 3 million towards the settlement of the outstanding allowances.
The statement added that while this payment brings authorities closer to clearing the debt, “However, there remains an outstanding amount of US$3.7 million, and we are working closely with Treasury to ensure that the remaining amount is settled as soon as possible”.
The Department commended those who took part in the registration campaign, which aimed to reach remote areas and provide national documents such as birth certificates and identity cards.
“The Department would like to take this opportunity to extend its sincere appreciation to members who participated in the mobile registration exercise for their hard work, dedication and continued patience as we work towards addressing this matter,” the statement read.
Participants in the 2023 mobile registration exercise were responsible for conducting vital civil documentation services across the country, including in hard-to-reach rural and underserved communities. Many of them have been waiting months for full payment of their promised allowances.
While no timeline has been given for the disbursement of the remaining funds, the Civil Registry Department assured affected individuals that it remains committed to resolving the issue.
“We will continue to provide updates on the progress of these payments,” the Department stated.
The mop-up exercise formed part of a broader national effort to ensure universal access to civil documentation and was seen as a crucial step in reducing statelessness and improving access to public services.
The release of funds marks a positive development, though attention now turns to how quickly the remaining US$3.7 million will be secured. The Department’s continued collaboration with Treasury will be critical in ensuring all outstanding dues are paid.
