Uganda’s National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) is gearing up for a mass enrollment exercise starting June 1st, 2024, to register or renew the expiring Identity Cards (IDs) of nearly 30 million Ugandans. The new IDs will come with enhanced security features, including iris biometrics, and will be valid for 10 years.
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Delayed Start and Concerns Raised by Parliamentarians
While the exercise is expected to run until January 2025, concerns have been raised by Members of Parliament about potential delays due to gaps in preparations at NIRA, including lack of funds for recruitment of registration staff and procurement of necessary systems. Parliamentarians also questioned the necessity of renewing IDs every 10 years and highlighted the slow process of issuance and access to IDs for some citizens.
Key Features of the New National ID Cards:
- Iris biometric feature: NIRA will add iris scans to the new ID cards, providing an additional layer of security and authentication.
- Enhanced security features: The new cards will have advanced security features including a new ultraviolet (UV) detectable security element, making them more difficult to forge.
- 10-year validity: The new IDs will be valid for 10 years, aligning with the current practice.
Who is Eligible for Enrollment or Renewal?
- New applicants: Ugandans who have never applied for an ID or a National Identification Number (NIN).
- Renewal applicants: Individuals whose current ID was issued in 2014 or 2015 and is due to expire in 2024 or 2025.
- No renewal needed: Holders of IDs with expiration dates beyond 2025 are not required to participate in the mass renewal exercise.
Enrollment Process and Costs:
- Mobile enrollment sites: NIRA will set up mobile enrollment sites in parishes across all districts to facilitate easy access.
- Free enrollment and renewal: The enrollment and renewal process itself is free of charge.
- Express service fee: An optional express service for receiving the card within 48 hours will incur a fee of Shs50,000, similar to the cost of replacing a lost ID.
The mass enrollment exercise presents an opportunity for Uganda to strengthen its national identification system with secure and updated IDs. Addressing concerns about funding, staff training, and accessibility will be crucial for a smooth and successful rollout. With continued dialogue and collaboration between NIRA and stakeholders, the upgraded IDs promise to enhance security, streamline transactions, and improve service delivery for Ugandan citizens.
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