Cape Town – The Department of Home Affairs issued close to 20 000 IDs to South Africans who went to register to vote during the final registration weekend of 8 and 9 February, authorities said.
More than 2 000 temporary IDs were also issued to South Africans to allow them to register, while 4 540 smart ID cards were processed at the 315 Home Affairs offices that were opened over that weekend.
Speaking at the Governance and Administration Cluster media briefing in Parliament on Tuesday, Home Affairs Minister Naledi Pandor said the work of the offices was complimented by 73 mobile trucks to areas where there are no Home Affairs offices.
Senior managers were also sent to provinces to assist in the issuing of documents necessary for voter registration.
Minister Pandor said the department would continue to roll out the new smart ID cards. She urged youngsters, who are first time applicants, to visit Home Affairs offices to apply for their cards.
“So far, I am seeing senior citizens who are coming in their numbers to apply for the cards and they love the smart cards.”
At least 28 offices across the country can process smart ID cards applications.
Minister Pandor said: “The smart card is an integral part of the department moving away from the outdated systems, as it builds digital systems that will help improve access to services for citizens". – SAnews.gov.za
