Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia has officially launched CitizenApp, a comprehensive digital platform aimed at centralising interactions between the government and its citizens.
The launch, which took place in Accra on Monday, October 7, 2024 is part of the government’s ongoing digital transformation journey initiated in 2017, under the leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Bawumia said “since 2017, we have set Ghana on a digital transformation journey towards a brighter and more efficient future.”
He noted that prior to this initiative, public services were marred by inefficiencies, requiring citizens to navigate long queues and endure complex bureaucratic processes.
The Vice President outlined the challenges that plagued the previous analog system, highlighting issues such as slow service delivery, widespread corruption, and inadequate access to essential services, particularly in rural areas.
Dr. Bawumia elaborated on the transformative impact of mobile money in Ghana’s economy, stating, “Mobile money has been a catalyst for economic growth and financial inclusion.”
He highlighted that it has enabled millions of Ghanaians to participate in the formal economy and access financial services, bridging the gap between the informal and formal sectors.
With the introduction of the CitizenApp, Dr. Bawumia asserted that the government aims to create an interconnected digital framework that enhances service delivery.
“This app is designed to simplify and centralize the various public services, allowing Ghanaians to perform tasks such as paying utility bills, renewing licenses and accessing healthcare – all from their mobile devices,” he explained.
The Vice President also painted a vivid picture of how the CitizenApp will serve citizens throughout their lives, from applying for birth certificates to processing death certificates.
“This cradle-to-grave story illustrates how the CitizenApp Data Interoperability System is designed to support every Ghanaian at every stage of life,” he said.
The Vice President urged Ghanaians to embrace the new platform. “Today, we are not just launching an app; we are launching a new era of citizen engagement. I encourage all Ghanaians to download the CitizenApp and share their feedback,” he stated.
The deputy Minister of Information, Sylvester Tetteh, who also addressed the gathering emphasised the significance of the CitizenApp Data Interoperability System as a cornerstone in Ghana’s digital transformation journey.
“Today’s launch reflects the remarkable collaboration between public and private sectors. We owe much to the partnerships that have made this initiative a reality.
“The teamwork and collective vision shared by all involved have been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of digital governance,” Mr. Tetteh stated.
Highlighting the app’s potential, he remarked that “The CitizenApp stands as a beacon of how we can harness the power of digital tools to drive progress, innovation and economic development.”
He noted that the platform promises to enhance efficiency across various sectors, paving the way for a more organised and accessible public service delivery system.
Mr. Tetteh underscored that the journey of digital transformation is just beginning. “We must continue to take bold, innovative steps to modernise our economy and expand digital government services,” he urged.
The Deputy Commissioner General of Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Ms. Julie Essiam, speaking at the event expressed pride in GRA’s legacy of technological innovation.
“This is not just about the GRA’s growth; it is about creating a GRA that is responsive to the evolving needs of the people we serve,” she stated, emphasising the importance of digital tools in shaping a more sustainable and dynamic institution.
Madam Essiam noted that the CitizenApp represents a pivotal step in eliminating the frustrations associated with public service access.
“Today, we stand on the threshold of a new era—an era where convenience and accessibility in public services are not just aspirations but realities,” she said.
She painted a vivid picture of a future where processes such as clearing goods at the port would be as seamless as those in advanced countries like Dubai, where all necessary data is linked to a unique identification system.
“With Citizenapp Data Interoperability System (CADIS), your Ghana Card becomes that unique ID,” she explained. The app also aims to simplify vehicle registration, tax filing, and other public service processes.
Madam Essiam expressed her excitement about the cost-effectiveness of CADIS, stating “We are doing all of this at a fraction of the cost that it would have taken if we had built this system from scratch.”
Concluding her remarks, she emphasized that CADIS is not just a system but a promise to the people of Ghana.
“We are creating a system that will empower citizens, drive productivity and contribute to the economic growth of this great nation,” she affirmed.
