Ugandans looking to obtain passports have received a warning from the government to utilize the regional immigration offices of the Ministry of Internal Affairs instead of relying on third parties or brokers, who might exploit them financially.
Ministry spokesperson Simon Mundeyi emphasized that services at these regional centers, similar to those at the ministry head offices in Kampala, are free of charge except for the mandatory fee of 250,000 shillings for each ordinary passport.
Addressing attendees during the commissioning of the Jinja regional immigration office/Passport center at Busoga Square, Mundeyi highlighted the issue of unscrupulous brokers who take advantage of people’s lack of awareness, charging exorbitant fees of up to one million shillings for passport services, which is unacceptable.
Mundeyi also noted that since the introduction of electronic passports in 2018, there have been no reports of forgeries, attributing this to the advanced technology and security features incorporated into these passports. He emphasized that this system has enhanced the integrity of Ugandan passports and restricted access by non-Ugandans.
The permanent secretary of the Ministry, Lt. Gen. Joseph Musanyufu, stated that the establishment of regional passport centers aligns with the ministry’s dedication to improving service delivery, as directed by President Yoweri Museveni. He emphasized that decentralization aims to reduce bureaucracy and root out corruption in passport issuance and immigration services.
Musanyufu mentioned that Jinja is the fourth regional immigration office/passport center established, following Gulu, Mbale, and Mbarara, with plans for one in Arua by the year’s end. He encouraged residents of Jinja and neighboring areas to utilize these offices, assuring them of efficient and professional service without the need to travel to Kampala.
Maj. Gen. Kasita Gowa, the Director of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC), expressed optimism that the regional centers would alleviate congestion at the Kampala head office, in line with the President’s directive to bring services closer to the people.
Jacob Siminyu, the Jinja regional immigration officer, reported that over 600 passports have already been issued at the newly established office, indicating its effectiveness in serving the community.
Jinja’s deputy resident city commissioner, Juma Kigongo, commended the DCIC staff for their direct engagement with clients, bypassing third-party intermediaries.
Additionally, Mundeyi disclosed that the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) collects up to 800 million shillings daily from passport applicants, contributing to the consolidated funds.
