Why NIIRA has extended validity of national IDs to 2025

The validity of Ugandan national identity cards, originally set to expire in 2024, has been extended until 2025, according to Internal Affairs State Minister Gen. David Muhoozi.

The extension, announced on Thursday, August 15, 2024, during a meeting with officials from the National Committee on Defence and Internal Affairs, is formalized in a Statutory Instrument published in the gazette on August 12.

Gen. Muhoozi revealed that the delay in renewing national IDs and the upcoming mass registration exercise is due to logistical challenges, including delays in procuring necessary equipment and establishing a new Industrial Security Information System.

“The renewal and mass registration were supposed to begin on June 1, 2024, but key items like biometric registration kits and software modules need to be in place first,” he explained.

The minister reassured that despite the delays, efforts are underway to ensure all eligible voters for the 2026 elections will be issued IDs in time to participate.

Concerns were raised by committee members, such as Hon. Wilson Kajwengye, who questioned whether multiple national events at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds are affecting NIRA’s operations.

Hon. Rauben Arinaitwe also highlighted potential issues with the recognition of extended ID validity in cross-border situations.

Hon. Brandon Kintu expressed frustration over the frequent absence of NIRA staff at registration offices, urging for accountability and better service delivery.