By KT Reporter
A renewed nationwide campaign to update and replace National Identity Cards (IDs) has kicked off in Mukono District, spearheaded by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA).
The exercise officially began with the registration of Mukono Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Hajjat Fatumah Ndisaba, marking the start of a six-month mass registration and renewal initiative. The campaign, which is free of charge, targets over 12,000 residents in Mukono who were previously issued IDs.
The Mukono launch precedes the official nationwide rollout, which begins on May 27, 2025. At the forefront of the launch, Ndisaba issued a stern warning to cult-like groups, allegedly discouraging residents from participating in government programs such as ID registration.
“Cults in the areas discouraging government programs, including registration, we shall arrest you in your godly nature,” Ndisaba declared. “This system is not about elections; it’s about identity, access to services, and national security.”
She emphasized that the IDs serve functions beyond elections, countering claims that the exercise is politically motivated. Ndisaba also praised the improved biometric system, which now includes iris scanning. She noted that the upgrade addresses past errors and reduces delays caused by network failures. Edwin Wesonga, NIRA’s head in Mukono, assured the public of a more streamlined and accessible process. “Registration will take place at schools, sub-county headquarters, and other public spaces,” Wesonga said. “We encourage people to come with their old IDs. If lost, a police letter is required to confirm the loss.”
He added that individuals with errors on their previous IDs can have them corrected, except in cases where the inaccuracies require court resolution. Wesonga also encouraged citizens to pre-register via the NIRA website to avoid long queues and delays.
Among the early registrants was Margret Nassuuna, a resident of Mukono, who praised the new system. “The process is marvelous, simple, and quick,” Nassuuna said after completing her renewal.
Meanwhile, Ndisaba addressed long-standing concerns from marginalized groups such as the Banyarwanda community, assuring them of full support throughout the process. She also warned moneylenders against confiscating old IDs and urged them to return the documents so citizens can renew them and regain access to essential services. The nationwide campaign is a legal obligation under Uganda’s Registration of Persons Act. Failure to renew or register may result in limited access to public services and legal documentation-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
