The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has officially kicked off the mass renewal and enrollment of National IDs, a process expected to ensure all Ugandans have valid identification.
The renewal service is entirely free as emphasized by NIRA’s Human Resources Manager, Angella Bukirwa.
However, controversy has erupted over the high costs associated with specific paid services, with Ugandans questioning the justification behind the fees.
Under the new guidelines, Ugandans seeking to replace lost IDs must pay UGX 50,000 while those with damaged cards or seeking changes to their particulars will be charged UGX 200,000. Payments must be made at designated banks and receipts presented as proof of transaction.
While the mass renewal is free, these additional costs have sparked criticism with many arguing that they place an undue financial burden on ordinary citizens particularly in the current economic climate.
The initiative which officially commenced in April 2025 comes after the government extended the validity of National IDs by one year to allow for a smoother transition.
The process aims to curb identity fraud, streamline public service access and enhance national security.
However, concerns remain over accessibility, with many Ugandans in remote areas struggling to reach registration centers, as well as the efficiency of NIRA in handling the expected surge in applications.
Public reaction has been mixed, with some welcoming the move as a necessary step toward proper identification, while others remain skeptical about the government’s ability to ensure a seamless and corruption-free process.
The debate over the fees is likely to continue, as opposition voices and civil society organizations push for a review of the costs associated with obtaining a National ID in Uganda.
For now, NIRA maintains that the process is designed to be as inclusive as possible urging Ugandans to take advantage of the free renewal service while adhering to the specified guidelines for paid services.
