NIRA Launches Mass National ID Registration and Renewal Exercise Across Uganda

The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) is set to deploy over 10,000 trained Registration Assistants next month in a nationwide exercise to register and update bio-data and biometrics of Ugandans at parish level. The initiative aims to enroll 17.2 million new citizens and renew 15.8 million National ID cards that expired between 2024 and 2025.

Currently, 10,594 Registration Assistants are undergoing intensive training at 21 regional centers across the country. The training, which includes both theoretical and practical sessions, focuses on key areas such as the NIRA mandate, legal framework, citizenship verification, data privacy, customer care, and biometric kit operation. Each trainee undergoes a four-day hands-on training session, followed by an exit test to assess their readiness.

According to NIRA officials, the new registration kits have been upgraded to feature advanced technology, including iris readers, solar panels, extended battery life, and a secondary screen enabling applicants to verify their information in real-time. This upgrade is expected to significantly streamline the registration process, especially in remote areas with limited access to electricity and infrastructure.

NIRA's Executive Director, Rosemary Kisembo, emphasized the importance of customer care in the success of the mass registration exercise. Addressing trainees, she urged them to exercise empathy and treat every citizen with respect and patience.

“I would like you to put yourselves in the shoes of the people you serve, most of whom face different challenges. Treat them the same way you would want to be treated,” she said.

The government has also confirmed that the renewal of expired ID cards will be free of charge. Citizens will only be required to present their expired cards at their respective parishes to have them renewed.

This mass enrolment and renewal drive marks one of the largest identification initiatives in Uganda’s history, with the goal of ensuring that every citizen is registered and has access to valid identification. The exercise is expected to enhance service delivery, national security, and the country's digital economy goals.

NIRA officials expressed optimism about the readiness of the Registration Assistants, noting that many trainees had demonstrated exceptional grasp of the training material. The exercise is slated to officially kick off next month and will continue progressively across all parishes in Uganda.