The ministry of lands recently launched the Biometric Access Control System (BACS), a security technique to regulate the movement of people at the Ministry Headquarters at Ardhi House in Nairobi. Components of the BACS system, which has been installed at the main entrance includes a visible deterrent, biometric fingerprints and card readers to track the entrance of employees and visitors into the building as well as their exit. The system will identify, verify and allow entry, track time and deny access to restricted areas.
The system is a security measure to safeguard against the rampant theft or manipulation of land registration information from the ministry headquarters. Several instances of land theft and deprivation of land have been traced to loss of files and alteration of details in the lend registries. If the system works as intended, this will be a big boon for land security in the country. Prof. Jacob Kaimenyi also said that the system is also aimed at improving staff output by ensuring they report to work on time.
Staff will now use biometric access cards and fingerprints to access the restricted areas for security, time and attendance management. Visitors on the other hand will use access cards that will allow entry only into necessary areas and floors, and deny access to restricted areas. Further, the CS pointed out that the ministry is focused on serving Kenyans and this includes improving staff accountability and the capacity to fight graft.
The benefits of the BACS system include:
Accurate Identification
The system relies on biological characteristics of an individual’s fingerprint which is unique and an accurate identification method that cannot be easily duplicated unlike traditional systems which use personal identification cards and badges.
Accountability
In the case of breach of security, management can trace the responsible persons because the system leaves a definite audit trail of locations and floors accessed.
Enhanced Security
Undocumented access, ID swapping and manual badge checks are not applicable hence forgery is eliminated. Only biological features and access permissions strictly apply.
Improved Service Delivery
The system generates advanced insights and data on which areas are most frequented by the public and the time taken. This helps management to allocate resources to prevent delays.
Improved Staff Management
The system generates reports showing staff movement and time records which can be used to manage staff output.
Scalability
The system is very flexible and easily scalable to higher level of security with more discriminable features to increase identification accuracy and security within the building. During the launch, NLC Chair, Prof. Muhammad Swazuri said that the new system is not meant to discourage the public from accessing the building, but to ensure security of records, hasten service delivery and ensure genuine visits.
