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DR Congo's New Biometric Passport: A Leap Towards Enhanced Security

On June 5, 2025, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) took a significant step in modernizing its travel documentation by officially introducing a biometric passport. This new passport offers a level of security that meets the highest international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). With this launch, the DRC is not only providing its citizens with a secure travel document but is also reinforcing their identity protection in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

The implementation of the biometric passport system has been spearheaded by the Congolese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in partnership with DERMALOG, an expert in biometric solutions. This comprehensive system features various advanced technologies designed to combat forgery and enhance the security of personal data. Key features of the new passport include a contactless RFID chip, a polycarbonate data page, and a host of security elements such as holograms, ultraviolet printing, and watermarks.

In a statement made by Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, she emphasized that this initiative was a proactive response to changing international norms, aimed at guaranteeing free movement for Congolese citizens and ensuring the maximum security of their personal information. According to Wagner, “The launch of the new passport is not a spur-of-the-moment decision, but a proactive response to changing international standards, guaranteeing the free movement of our citizens, while offering them maximum security for their personal data.”

A Complete Biometric Solution

To facilitate the issuance of these new passports, DERMALOG has provided the DRC government with a complete passport system solution. This includes everything from online pre-registration and biometric enrollment to centralized passport printing. To ensure accessibility across the nation, a total of 100 biometric capture stations have been installed, comprising 50 stationary and mobile setups within the country and an additional 50 mobile units located at DRC’s diplomatic missions worldwide.

Each of these stations is equipped with cutting-edge technology: fingerprint and iris scanners, facial recognition cameras, document scanners, and signature pads, all designed to accurately and securely capture an individual's biometric information. Centralized production capabilities allow the DRC to issue up to 2,400 passports daily, dramatically increasing efficiency in document processing.

Strengthening Digital Sovereignty

Günther Mull, the CEO of DERMALOG, expressed pride in the partnership, stating that their biometric solution supports the DRC’s efforts toward digital sovereignty and enhances both security and efficiency for government services. The biometric passport is a vital component in the DRC’s broader strategy to transition towards a modernized, digital government infrastructure, laying the foundation for innovative citizen services.

A Vision for the Future

With the launch of this biometric passport, the DR Congo is taking concrete steps towards safeguarding the identities of its citizens while paving the way for future advancements in governmental operations. The collaboration with DERMALOG not only enhances the security of travel documentation but also aligns with global movements towards digitization and improved administrative efficiency.

As the DRC continues to adapt to international practices in identity management and security, the introduction of this biometric passport symbolizes a commitment to the safety of its citizens and the modernization of its public services.

This strategic move is a significant leap forward for the DRC, underscoring its dedication to enhancing national security and facilitating travel for its citizens while embracing technological innovations in the digital age.