The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has expressed concern over the low turnout for the ongoing mass registration and renewal of National Identification Cards, commonly known as endagamuntu.
The nationwide exercise, which began in May, has so far attracted only 5.3 million people, the majority seeking renewals, despite being offered free of charge.
Claire Ollama, the Registrar General at NIRA, noted that although many people are turning up, most are only interested in renewing their existing IDs, with very few registering for new ones.
“The uptake of new registrations is disappointingly low. While we are seeing large numbers, they are mostly coming for one service, renewals. That’s why I’m making this appeal,” she said.
Ollama cited data from the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), which estimates the country’s population at 45 million, with half being children.
“If there’s one message I want to emphasize, it is this: register children, register children, register children,” she urged.
To address the gap in child registration, NIRA will soon begin registering school-going children. Parents will be required to complete learner declaration forms, which will be distributed through schools.
“Toward the end of July, we will start registering children in schools. Although this wasn’t the original approach, we’ve been compelled to shift because schools offer an organized environment where children can easily be reached,” Ollama explained.
She also warned against the practice of registering on behalf of others, particularly for purposes such as SIM card acquisition, calling for stricter enforcement.
In addition, NIRA announced a special window from July 21–25, 2025, for those wishing to update their ID details. Ugandans will be required to pay UGX 200,000 for changes due to personal reasons or preferences. However, corrections arising from NIRA’s own errors will be made at no cost.
“Beginning July 22, it will be possible to change your name. So we urge people to start preparing their deed polls and statutory declarations if they wish to update their records,” she said.
Ollama confirmed that production of new IDs is underway and notifications for collection will be issued once ready.
To ensure smooth execution of the mass registration exercise, NIRA has established district-level mass enrolment committees, including members from the District Internal Security Office (DISO) and District Police Commanders.
These teams have been empowered to take legal action against individuals attempting to disrupt or undermine the program.
