The National Identification Registration Authority (NIRA) has revealed its plan to initiate a comprehensive nationwide enrollment and renewal process for national identification cards starting in June this year.
Rosemary Kisembo, the Executive Director of NIRA, disclosed this during a press briefing on Monday, emphasizing that the renewal exercise will be conducted at NIRA centers and all 10,717 parishes across the country.
Additionally, Kisembo outlined NIRA’s forthcoming public sensitization campaign, aimed at raising awareness about the significance of the renewal exercise and informing citizens about the designated locations for the process. She also clarified the introduction of a biometric feature on the identification cards.
Moreover, Kisembo outlined the eligibility criteria for recruitment as registration assistants, specifying that candidates must possess a minimum Advance Certificate of Education (UACE) and proficiency in the local languages of the respective districts where they apply.
Recruitment exercises for registration assistants will be conducted at the district level under the supervision of district renewal committees, chaired by resident district commissioners. Applicants are required to reside in the districts where they apply.
During the renewal process, NIRA will prioritize individuals aged sixteen and above, given that NIRA’s register contributes to the voter’s register.
Recently, the Ministry of Internal Affairs announced the removal of the 50,000 Shillings fee for the renewal of National Identity Cards, except for express services. Gen. David Muhoozi, State Minister for Internal Affairs, assured that the government is committed to renewing over 15 million IDs and issuing more than 17 million new ones by January 2025.
Despite delays, Gen. Muhoozi confirmed that the Ministry had initiated procurement processes for ICT equipment and staff training as part of the ongoing development of the new National Security Information System in India.
The national ID program was first introduced in 2014 and 2015, with a 10-year validity period. As the IDs approach expiration in August 2024 and June 2025, the government is taking proactive steps to ensure a smooth renewal process for all citizens.
