Uganda Registration Services Bureau has officially handed over the marriage registration mandate to the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA).
The transition was formalized during a handover ceremony at the Uganda Business Facilitation Centre in Kololo, attended by high-level officials from both entities and the Ministry of Public Service.
Representing the URSB Board Chairperson was Ms. Annie Katushabe, while Mr. Joseph Biribonwa attended on behalf of the NIRA Board. Allen Kakama represented the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Service.
Ms. Mercy K. Kainobwisho, Registrar General of URSB, handed over the marriage registration function to Ms. Rosemary Kisembo, Executive Director of NIRA, in a gesture that marked not just administrative change but also the evolution of public service delivery in Uganda.
“This moment marks the conclusion of a significant chapter and the beginning of another,” said Ms. Kainobwisho, underscoring the importance of the move.
Citing the legal foundations of the change, she added, “The handover follows the amendment of the relevant laws, which now place the responsibility for marriage registration with the National Identification and Registration Authority.”
Throughout the event, Ms. Kainobwisho emphasized URSB’s commitment to a dignified and responsible transition.
“As the institution previously mandated with this responsibility, the Uganda Registration Services Bureau has embraced this transition with professionalism, humility, and a deep sense of duty to the people of Uganda.”
She also detailed the meticulous coordination that took place in preparation for the shift. “Our teams have worked hard to ensure the transfer of marriage registration function is handled professionally,” she remarked.
Budgetary compliance, a critical component of the RAPEX agenda, was also assured.
“We have complied fully with the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development regarding the transfer of the relevant budgets from our Vote to that of NIRA.”
URSB went a step further in supporting the transition by extending logistical aid to NIRA. “During the transition period, URSB has continued to share some facilities, including, internet, lunch, medical insurance scheme, and office space, among others, with our colleagues from the National Identification and Registration Authority.”
She credited the Ministry of Public Service (MOPS) for helping facilitate a smooth changeover. “At the peak of events, a team from MOPS conducted a change management training for the then Civil Registration staff to allay their anxieties and prepare them for the transition. Your guidance and encouragement have been instrumental in ensuring a smooth and fair transition for everyone involved.”
As part of RAPEX requirements, a comprehensive asset verification process was carried out.
“The Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development conducted a thorough Board of Survey to verify all assets owned by the Uganda Registration Services Bureau that are being used by the marriage registration team,” she explained. “The report from that exercise formed the official basis for today’s handover, and we are grateful for that clarity and oversight.”
Taking over the reins, Ms. Rosemary Kisembo of NIRA expressed confidence in her institution’s ability to uphold the integrity of the function now entrusted to them.
“To URSB, don’t be worried about the child you have handed over. They shall grow, they shall transform, and they can transcend,” she said, adding that NIRA is prepared to manage the responsibility with care and diligence.
This structural adjustment is part of the government’s continued commitment to reducing redundancy, increasing accountability, and improving service delivery across public institutions.
