Ghana is set to overhaul its SIM registration system with the introduction of the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR), a national database that will track mobile devices, block stolen phones, and ensure that subscriber information is accurate.

The move, announced during a stakeholder engagement, is aimed at closing longstanding gaps in oversight and protecting consumers from fraud, including mobile money scams and SIM swaps.

Director-General of the National Communications Authority (NCA), Rev. Edmund Fianko, explained that the CEIR will use unique device identification numbers (IMEIs) to detect unapproved, substandard, or duplicate devices that have contributed to quality-of-service complaints.

Speaking on the new system, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam Nartey George, emphasised the strict enforcement measures for fraudulent SIMs.

“Every SIM card not registered by the real owner will be blocked… the device will be blocked, the number disabled, and the Ghana Card flagged,” he said.

Previous registration exercises revealed weaknesses in verifying subscriber identities against the National Identification Authority (NIA) database, allowing some individuals to register SIM cards with false or unverifiable identities.

The CEIR-enabled system will enforce real-time biometric verification, ensuring SIMs are linked to the rightful owners before activation.

The Ministry is also preparing a revised Legislative Instrument to replace the 2011 Subscriber Identity Module Registration (LI 2006), which will govern the updated SIM registration process.