The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has officially launched a nationwide initiative to renew and enroll Ugandans for National IDs. The exercise, set to run for several months, is a critical effort to ensure every citizen has valid identification.
Mass Renewal and Enrollment Kicks Off
Angella Bukirwa, NIRA’s Human Resources Manager, confirmed the process is now open to the public.
“We are officially rolling out the renewal and enrollment process,” she announced. This large-scale mobilization is aimed at reaching all Ugandans, particularly those whose IDs have expired.
The renewal process is free, ensuring that all citizens have access to proper identification without financial constraints.
“Every Ugandan has the right to proper identification,” Bukirwa emphasized. “This initiative removes financial barriers, making the process accessible to everyone.”
Charges for Special Cases
While standard renewals are free, specific services such as replacing lost, damaged, or altered IDs come with set fees.
- Lost ID: UGX 50,000
- Damaged ID: UGX 200,000
- Changes to personal details (e.g., name or address): UGX 200,000
Payments must be made at designated banks, and a receipt is required as proof of payment.
Community-Based Registration Approach
To enhance accessibility, NIRA is taking the process to the people.
“For the first 10 months, we will be operating at the parish level,” Bukirwa explained.
This decentralized approach ensures even those in remote areas can renew their IDs without long-distance travel. After this phase, NIRA’s offices will continue offering the service.
Over 10,000 Registration Assistants Deployed
To manage the expected high demand, NIRA has recruited and trained over 10,000 registration assistants. These professionals will be stationed at registration centers to facilitate smooth and efficient processing.
Beyond ID Cards: Expanding Civic and Economic Participation
This initiative is more than just an administrative exercise—it empowers Ugandans by providing access to essential services. With a valid National ID, citizens can participate in elections, access healthcare, open bank accounts, and secure job opportunities.
By eliminating financial barriers and bringing services closer to communities, NIRA is ensuring that national identification is truly accessible to all Ugandans.
As the process unfolds, Ugandans stand to gain more than just a renewed ID card—they gain greater inclusion in their country’s civic and economic landscape.
The mass renewal initiative is a transformative step toward advancing the rights and opportunities of every Ugandan citizen.
