Madagascar celebrated National Identity Day yesterday, marked by the theme "My Identity, My Shadow. Never Separated." The significant event coincided with the official launch of the highly anticipated second phase of the biometric enrollment operation "Izaho tokana 2.0." With over six million people enrolled during the first phase, this second phase, extending until July 2027, targets ten million Malagasy citizens aged 18 and above. This major initiative, supported by the World Bank Group through the DECIM project, is accompanied by the inauguration of the Operational Coordination Center within the National Center for Civil Status and Identity.
Legal identity is far more than an administrative document. It enables each person to be recognized by the State and facilitates access to numerous essential services, including education, health, social protection, financial services, and public services more broadly. The biometric environment also constitutes an essential foundation for modernizing administration and developing human-centered public services in Madagascar. Particular attention must be given to the most remote populations, women, youth, vulnerable persons, and all those still facing difficulties accessing identity services. The success of this operation will be measured primarily by its ability to leave no one behind.