The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has announced plans to roll out a nationwide national ID issuance drive aimed at reducing congestion at its district offices and improving access to services for citizens awaiting identification documents.
Speaking to journalists, NIRA Registrar Claire Ollama said the authority is responding to public concerns regarding delays in feedback on applications and the long queues experienced at various service centres following the conclusion of the mass enrolment and renewal exercise.
“We have been engaging the public on the issues raised around the collection of national IDs and related services. After completing the mass enrolment and renewal exercise, we are now managing over 10.2 million cards, and the distribution process is ongoing,” Ollama said.
She explained that although NIRA continues to offer services such as national ID collection, birth and death registration, and issuance of National Identification Numbers (NINs) across its 146 district offices, high demand has led to congestion and long waiting times.
“This has resulted in a high turnout at our offices, often marked by long queues and extended waiting periods. As a way to address this challenge, we are rolling out an issuance roadshow for national IDs across different parts of the country,” she added.
According to NIRA, the roadshow will operate as a mobile service clinic complementing existing district offices, enabling citizens to collect IDs, correct registration errors, and receive assistance with pending applications.
Ollama emphasized that the initiative is not intended to replace permanent offices but to enhance service delivery and reach more citizens in a single coordinated effort.
“This intervention is not meant to replace our offices but to complement them and ensure that people access services more efficiently,” she said.
The rollout will begin on April 14 in Wakiso District and will cover multiple areas including Kira Municipality, Nansana, Kasangati, Masuliita, Namayumba, and surrounding divisions. Additional operations are scheduled for April 16, targeting other parts of Wakiso such as Bweyogerere, Kira Division, Nansana Division, Nabweru Division, and Wakiso Sub-county.
NIRA noted that Wakiso District has been prioritized due to its high population density and demand for services.
“If you belong to those areas, we are saying we have heard your concerns, and you will be able to access your national ID services at these designated locations,” Ollama said.
