The plans for systems integration, to combine data from the current ID card, passport and driver's licence, are already underway. The first eID documents are expected to be distributed in around six months, following successful completion of the pilot phase.

Rwanda's existing national ID card, also produced by De La Rue, is currently held by all citizens over the age of 16. It is envisaged the new eID card will replace this and contain additional e-government information, such as health and social security details, putting Rwanda at the forefront of regional IT advancement and offering further evidence of its strong economic resurgence.

Pascal Nyamurinda, national ID project coordinator, Ministry of Local Government said "Rwanda is very proud to be launching East Africa's first eID scheme. This project is of utmost importance for our country, providing our citizens with access to additional services through the use of a highly secure eID device. We have chosen to work with De La Rue for over ten years now and throughout that time we have been impressed by their constant efforts to exceed our expectations, always delivering an innovative and trusted solution."

James Thorburn, managing director, De La Rue Identity Systems commented "De La Rue is delighted to be strengthening its relationship with Rwanda, focused on delivering a dynamic strategic project. We already provide the country's passport, current ID card, driver's licence and supporting systems so we are able to use our local knowledge and expertise, as well as experience from implementing over 50 national schemes, to ensure successful implementation of the new eID project."