The National Identification Registration Authority (NIRA) is considering a proposal that would require all Ugandans to present their old national IDs before being issued new ones during the upcoming mass enrollment. The new national IDs are set to feature additional security measures, including DNA information.
The current national IDs, issued a decade ago, are set to expire this year. NIRA spokesperson Osbone Mushabe addressed journalists in Kampala, outlining the potential plan to streamline the renewal process.
Mushabe emphasized the necessity for Ugandans to present their old national IDs, pointing out that records indicate many citizens have either lost, misplaced, or used their IDs as collateral for loans, without retrieving or replacing them.
He stated, “It is crucial for every citizen to possess a national ID at this moment, as it is vital for accessing key government services and other services like banking. Our proposal suggests that, before issuing new national IDs, individuals will need to present their old ones.”
While emphasizing the importance of timely ID replacement, Mushabe acknowledged that this proposal is still pending clearance.
Furthermore, Mushabe cautioned against the illegal practice of using national IDs as collateral for loans, particularly from moneylenders. He urged those engaging in such activities to cease, highlighting the potential challenges citizens may face during the mass renewal exercise if they fail to retrieve their old IDs.
In conclusion, Mushabe stressed the need for citizens to proactively replace lost or misplaced national IDs to ensure a smooth and efficient process during the mass renewal exercise.
