The Executive Director of the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA), Ms. Rosemary Kisembo, has officially announced the launch date of Uganda’s highly anticipated National ID Mass Enrollment and Renewal Exercise. Scheduled to begin on May 27, 2025, the nationwide exercise aims to update the National Identification Register and provide Ugandans with more secure, digitally integrated identification cards.
A Dual-Purpose Campaign
This extensive campaign serves a twofold purpose:
- Renewal of Expiring Cards: A total of 15.8 million national IDs are set to expire by June 2025, and many have already expired. These will be replaced with upgraded cards featuring enhanced security and functionality.
- New Enrollments: The campaign also seeks to register 17.2 million new Ugandans, with a focus on reaching previously unregistered citizens, including infants, teenagers, and the elderly.
Currently, the National Identification Register holds the biometric and biographic data of 27.7 million Ugandans.
Registration Logistics
Ms. Kisembo confirmed that the exercise will run from Monday to Saturday, offering ample opportunity for citizens to participate. She stressed the individual responsibility of all eligible Ugandans to present themselves at the nearest registration center with the required documents for either enrollment or renewal.
“We must encourage our family members and neighbors to take part. This exercise is for everyone – children, youth, adults, and the elderly. Let’s not leave anyone behind,” she urged.
Next-Generation National ID Features
One of the most notable upgrades in this exercise is the introduction of a next-generation National ID. The redesigned card includes several state-of-the-art security features, such as:
- Multiple Laser Image (MLI)
- Machine Readable Zone (MRZ)
- QR codes
- 2D barcodes
These enhancements are not just for visual security. According to Kisembo, the new National ID will enable online and offline verification, support digital signatures, offer secure access to digital credentials, and integrate seamlessly with:
- eGovernment services
- Mobile devices
- Physical security and authentication systems
A Leap Toward Digital Identity and Inclusion
This mass enrollment and renewal exercise is a key component of Uganda’s broader strategy to improve digital governance and public service delivery. By equipping every citizen with a secure and technologically advanced ID, the government aims to facilitate greater access to financial, health, education, and voting services, especially for marginalized and underserved populations.
As the May 27 launch date approaches, NIRA and its partners are intensifying awareness campaigns to ensure full national participation. Ugandans are encouraged to follow official channels for updates and prepare the necessary documents to complete their registration or renewal.
This landmark initiative not only reinforces Uganda’s commitment to inclusive governance but also positions the country as a regional leader in digital identity management.
