Why Ugandans should embrace mass national ID renewal

______________

OPINION

By Mable Nambiro

Travelers who were earlier blocked from traveling outside the country due to expired national IDs can now look forward to relief after the government set this month for the start of mass renewal and enrolment. The exercise presents a golden opportunity for the country to modernise its identification system, enhance national security, and streamline access to essential services.

The Government injected over sh666b for the renewal exercise for close to 15.8 million IDs and 17.2 million unregistered citizens, to chance to bolster national security through updated technology.

For Citizens who were not enrolled, all they will require is to get their parents’ IDs, with a recommendation letter from the LC I chairman and DISO, while those who want to renew will just walk in with an old ID copy.

The new cards will incorporate advanced biometric features like iris scanning, alongside fingerprints, making them harder to forge. For a country like Uganda, which serves as a regional hub, ensuring that every citizen’s identity is secure and verifiable strengthens both internal stability and international trust.

In a digital age where financial inclusion is key to reducing poverty, an updated ID system will help integrate millions into the formal economy. It will be the only gateway to different government services, including medical, land transaction, education, healthcare, and banking, among other government services.

The National ID renewal aligns perfectly with Uganda’s preparations for the 2026 general elections. A valid national ID is a cornerstone of voter identification, meaning delays in renewal could disenfranchise eligible voters.

For the smooth running of the project, over 2,700 registration kits are already in hand, and about 10,594 Registration Assistants at the parish level have been trained to ensure a secure and efficient registration process that contributes to national security and public trust.

Ugandans must embrace this renewal because it is about owning their identity and their future. It is a chance to replace an outdated system with one that works for everyone urban and rural, young and old. By showing up, registering, and renewing, citizens can hold the government to its promises while building a stronger, more connected Country.

The writer is a National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) Registration Assistant.