By Caroline.N
More than 13.3 million Ugandans have successfully renewed their National Identity Cards as the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) extended the nationwide mass renewal and registration exercise to February 2026. The extension is intended to give all eligible citizens ample time to update their details, replace expired cards and register for the first time, particularly those who may have been missed during earlier phases of the exercise.
NIRA officials say the ongoing process is a critical national undertaking aimed at strengthening Uganda’s identity management system and ensuring that all citizens have access to a secure and reliable form of identification. The authority began the mass renewal exercise after it emerged that millions of National IDs issued between 2014 and 2015 had reached or were approaching expiry, creating challenges in accessing essential services.
According to NIRA, the renewed National IDs incorporate enhanced security features designed to reduce fraud and identity theft. The updated cards are also better integrated with government databases, making them more reliable for verification by public institutions, financial service providers and private sector entities.
Speaking on the progress of the exercise, NIRA officials noted that the renewal of over 13.3 million IDs reflects strong public response and growing awareness of the importance of having a valid National ID. “The numbers show that citizens appreciate the value of a National ID in daily life, from accessing government services to participating in economic activities,” a senior NIRA official said.
The extension of the exercise to February 2026 is largely aimed at addressing logistical and accessibility challenges faced by some communities. NIRA acknowledged that residents in hard-to-reach areas, including island districts, mountainous regions and some urban informal settlements, experienced delays due to limited equipment, high population density and occasional network challenges.
Under the extended timeline, NIRA plans to intensify outreach programmes through mobile registration teams, partnerships with local governments and increased deployment of registration kits. Special attention will also be given to vulnerable groups such as the elderly, persons with disabilities and citizens living in remote areas.
The National ID remains a cornerstone document in Uganda, serving as proof of citizenship and identity. It is required for a wide range of services, including opening bank accounts, accessing government programmes, registering SIM cards, participating in elections and conducting property transactions. With the country moving towards greater digitalisation of services, the role of a valid National ID has become even more central.
NIRA has urged citizens whose IDs are expired or nearing expiry to take advantage of the extended period and avoid last-minute rushes. First-time registrants, particularly youths who have recently turned 18, are also encouraged to register early to ensure they are captured in the national database.
The authority further reassured the public that the renewal and registration process remains free of charge for standard services, warning citizens against fraudsters who may attempt to solicit money. Ugandans have been advised to report any cases of extortion or malpractice to NIRA offices or law enforcement agencies.
As the February 2026 deadline approaches, NIRA believes the extended exercise will significantly improve national coverage and accuracy of the population register. Officials say a comprehensive and up-to-date national identification system is essential for effective planning, service delivery and national security.
With millions already renewed and registration efforts continuing across the country, the extension signals a government commitment to ensuring that no Ugandan is left without a valid National ID in an increasingly identification-driven society.