Africa-Press – Uganda. Government has assured the public that the ongoing National Identification Card renewal and enrollment exercise is on course, despite challenges related to system integration, QR code verification, long queues, and uncollected cards.
The State Minister for Internal Affairs, Gen. David Muhoozi, said the exercise, which commenced in May 2025, has now entered its seventh month, with substantial progress recorded nationwide.
“A lot of ground has been covered despite some constraints,” Muhoozi said. “We have received many applications for renewals and first-time registrations, and a number of cards have already been printed. While challenges exist, most have been resolved and others are being addressed as they arise.”
One of the major public concerns has been the failure of QR codes on newly issued National IDs to scan, limiting access to services.
Muhoozi said the problem is temporary and attributed it to the delayed commissioning of the ID authentication and access module, which links the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) system to platforms used by Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
“The system is in its final stages of implementation,” he said during an interview with NBS TV.”By the end of March, the module will be fully operational, allowing seamless verification of IDs and improved service delivery.”
In the interim, NIRA has been issuing letters of confirmation to cardholders whose QR codes are not functioning.
The minister noted that the ministry is working closely with MDAs and has designated contact officers to prevent misuse of the letters.
Muhoozi clarified that old National IDs can no longer be used, adding that the confirmation letters remain the only temporary alternative until the system is fully functional.
The minister also addressed complaints over long queues and delays in card collection, revealing that a large number of printed IDs remain uncollected across the country.
He said government has intensified public sensitization through television, radio, and SMS alerts sent via telecom companies to notify citizens of their card collection points.
“We need to improve by matching ID numbers with exact collection locations to make it easier for the public,” he added.
On allegations of corruption involving some NIRA officials, Muhoozi urged the public to report any demands for bribes.
“It takes two to tango,” he said. “If anyone asks for a bribe, the public should raise the red flag so that action is taken promptly. Our duty is to ensure that all Ugandans receive their National IDs free of charge.”
The minister said public feedback is critical in improving the exercise and ensuring timely delivery of National IDs.
“Despite the challenges, the renewal and enrollment exercise has largely been smooth,” Muhoozi said.”This feedback helps us audit ourselves and improve operations at NIRA so that Ugandans receive their IDs within the expected timeframes.”
