Kampala, Uganda – The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has reached a significant milestone in its national ID renewal program, with thousands of renewed identification cards now ready for collection across Uganda.
The announcement brings relief to countless citizens who have been eagerly awaiting their updated IDs, essential for accessing critical services like healthcare, education, banking, and voting.
On Monday, NIRA registrar Claire Ollama addressed the press, revealing that production of the renewed national ID cards began last week and has already yielded impressive results. “We are thrilled to share that we’ve produced 100,000 renewed national ID cards since last week,” Ollama said. “These cards have been dispatched to distribution centers nationwide, ensuring accessibility for applicants in every region.”
The rollout marks a major step forward in the government’s efforts to strengthen Uganda’s national identification system. National IDs are a cornerstone of daily life, required for everything from opening bank accounts to registering for school or participating in elections. For those with expired or damaged IDs, the renewal process is vital to maintaining access to these services.
Ollama confirmed that the cards are either en route or have already arrived at various collection points across the country. “This shows our renewal program is delivering results,” she said, emphasizing NIRA’s commitment to making the process as smooth as possible. She urged applicants to visit their designated pickup centers to collect their new IDs and called for patience as the authority continues processing remaining applications. “We’re working tirelessly to ensure everyone receives their renewed IDs quickly,” she assured.
The renewal program has faced challenges in recent months, including delays and system backlogs that frustrated many applicants. Some citizens expressed concerns about long wait times, raising questions about the efficiency of the process.
However, NIRA’s latest update demonstrates progress in overcoming these hurdles. The production of 100,000 cards in such a short period signals that the authority is addressing earlier issues and improving its operations.
To keep citizens informed, NIRA has advised Ugandans to check with their local NIRA offices or designated collection points for updates on their ID status. The authority has also pledged to provide regular updates as production continues in the coming weeks, to meet national demand in an organized and timely manner.
The successful rollout of renewed IDs is a critical part of ensuring that all Ugandans have access to valid identification. A valid ID not only facilitates access to essential services but also empowers citizens to fully participate in the country’s economic and civic life. By prioritizing efficiency and addressing past challenges, NIRA is working to build a stronger, more reliable system for delivering these vital documents.
As the renewal program moves forward, NIRA encourages citizens to stay engaged and proactive. Applicants are advised to contact their local NIRA office or visit collection points to confirm the availability of their renewed IDs. With thousands of cards now ready and more on the way, this milestone marks a promising step toward ensuring every Ugandan has the identification they need to thrive.