DRC Launches National Digital ID System Amidst Unexpected Funding Challenges for SA's Road Fund

DRC Unveils RDC-PASS: A Digital Identity Solution

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has launched RDC-PASS, a national digital identity system designed to provide citizens with one secure identifier for accessing government services, financial transactions, and more. The phased rollout aims to streamline interactions with public agencies and improve the efficiency of service delivery.

RDC-PASS offers several key benefits:

• Verifies SIM card ownership using biometric data to combat fraud
• Provides a single login across multiple government platforms
• Enables digital Know Your Customer (KYC) checks for financial institutions
• Works alongside physical identity documents rather than replacing them

Similar initiatives are underway across Africa, with Nigeria’s National Identification Number (NIN) system already registering over 126 million citizens and South Africa exploring a complementary digital ID solution.

EV Transition Creates Funding Gap in South Africa

South Africa is facing an unexpected challenge as its electric vehicle (EV) adoption accelerates. The country’s Road Accident Fund (RAF), which compensates victims of motor vehicle accidents, relies on a levy collected from every litre of petrol and diesel sold.

With EV sales rising rapidly—increasing by 96% year-over-year in the first quarter of 2026—fewer traditional vehicles are being sold, reducing revenue for the RAF. This has prompted discussions about new funding mechanisms, such as a licence renewal fee that could apply to all vehicle owners.

The RAF is currently facing structural insolvency with liabilities exceeding assets and a backlog of over 400,000 claims—highlighting the need for sustainable financing solutions in an era of rapidly changing transportation technology.