The Department of Home Affairs, together with four of the largest banks in South Africa, launched a first ever e-channel pilot project at the Gallagher Estate in Midrand on Thursday.

The online platform has been established as an alternative medium for the public to apply for new ID smartcards and passports.

One of the participating banks, Absa, invited a number of footballers that ply their trade for various Gauteng-based clubs in the Absa Premiership to attend the event. The players had a moment to engage informally with South Africa’s President Jacob Zuma and the Minister of Home Affairs, Malusi Gigaba, who encouraged them to make use of the new and secure method to apply for their new ID cards. Kaizer Chiefs were represented by striker Bernard Parker who, as a responsible citizen, already has one of the new ID cards.

The Amakhosi sharpshooter praised the government for its efforts in streamlining the application process: “I think this is a great idea and I am honoured to be part of the launch. This wonderful technology now enables every South African to get their ID smartcards safely and swiftly. In the meantime, those who have IDs must turn out in their numbers this weekend to register to vote in the local elections.”

Addressing those in attendance, President Zuma said: “We are making huge strides in the area of innovation in South Africa. We are one of the leaders when it comes to giving advice to other countries in the world.”

Reducing fraud and tightening the security process for immigration are among the benefits of the new system of applying for the ID card.

Minister Gigaba thanked everyone for their involvement, in particular the business sector, for demonstrating their support for government’s initiatives.