Ghana Considers Mandatory Photo ID Verification for Accessing Pornography Websites
Ghana’s Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has revealed that the government is working on a policy proposal that would require photo ID verification before anyone can access pornography websites in the country.
Speaking at the 4th African Inter‑Parliamentary Conference on Family, Sovereignty and Values, the minister said the measure is part of a broader effort to shield minors from explicit online content and strengthen digital safety standards.
According to Sam George, the proposal—currently being prepared for Cabinet consideration—would require users to verify their identity using either their Ghana Card or driver’s licence before visiting adult websites.
He explained:
“Before you access any X‑rated site, you must put either your driver’s licence or your national ID card, so that we know who you are and who is going to that site, to prevent children from being exposed to such content.”
The minister referenced similar age‑verification systems being explored in the United Kingdom and other jurisdictions, noting that Ghana must adopt stronger digital protections as internet access expands nationwide.
The proposal also aligns with the government’s broader push for online accountability, child protection, and the enforcement of family‑values legislation.
While the policy is still in development, the announcement has already sparked public debate about privacy, digital rights, and the practicality of enforcing age‑verification on global websites.