BUNYORO, Uganda — The ongoing mass renewal of National Identity Cards in Uganda’s Bunyoro sub-region is facing significant hurdles, primarily due to the widespread confiscation of IDs by moneylenders.
This concerning trend could prevent a substantial number of residents from updating their vital identification documents.
Across the districts of Hoima, Kikuube, and Buliisa, particularly among communities residing along the shores of Lake Albert, there’s growing apprehension that many citizens will be unable to participate in the ID renewal drive. This is because they surrendered their original National IDs as collateral for short-term loans.
Local leaders report that numerous residents who defaulted on these loans have had their National IDs confiscated. This renders them ineligible for the mass renewal exercise, as presenting the original expired ID is a mandatory requirement for updating or renewing one’s card.
Uthman Kadir Mugisa, the Hoima District LC5 Chairperson, confirmed that his office has received numerous complaints from residents who have been turned away for failing to present their IDs.
He has urgently appealed to the government and relevant ministries to intervene swiftly to prevent a significant portion of the population from being excluded from this crucial identification process.
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The situation in Kikuube is equally severe. LC5 Chairperson Peter Banura stated that many residents there have also been deemed ineligible because their IDs are being held by moneylenders.
Hoima Woman Member of Parliament, Harriet Businge, has also voiced her concern, urging the government to address the issue promptly to prevent the disenfranchisement of residents.
Residents directly affected are also speaking out. Wilberforce Onyuthi, a resident of Kasenyi-Lyato in Buseruka sub-county, reported that many people are being turned away due to the absence of their original IDs.
Patrick Musinguzi, from Kigorobya Town Council, called on the government to regulate moneylenders, warning that inaction could lead to widespread exclusion from the entire ID renewal process.
