Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe
The Civil Registry Department has alerted the public on the potential temporary delays in processing essential documents due to an ongoing upgrade of the civil registration system.
The upgrade aims to improve efficiency, security and service delivery.
The Civil Registry Department operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage.
In a public notice, the department said “The Civil Registry Department wishes to advise its valued clients and stakeholders that the Department is upgrading its civil registration system. This upgrade is aimed at enhancing efficiency, security and service delivery.
“During this period, there may be temporary disruptions or delays in processing civil registration documents and members of the public are urged to bear with us during this period.”
Access to civil documents, such as birth certificates and passports, has long been a challenge, particularly in marginalised areas, forcing individuals to travel to cities for these services.
However, the Government has taken swift action by establishing new passport offices across the country and expanding services to locations such as South Africa to enhance accessibility.
Bunjiwe Mkwananzi