KAMPALA, Uganda — The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has commenced the distribution of upgraded national identity cards for Ugandans who applied for renewals. Over 100,000 of these advanced cards have already been printed and dispatched to various districts across the country.
During a press briefing on Monday 14, July 2025, NIRA Registrar Claire Ollama confirmed that the new cards are now ready for collection at designated pickup points. She urged applicants to exercise patience as the extensive distribution process continues.
“We have printed and sent out 100,000 ID cards, which are now available at designated pickup points. We ask Ugandans to be patient as more people will soon receive notifications with instructions on where to collect their cards,” Ollama stated.
NIRA has specified that applicants must collect their new cards from the same locations where their biometric data was initially captured during the mass registration and renewal exercise, which began on May 27.
These newly upgraded national ID cards incorporate a range of advanced security enhancements designed to strengthen identity verification and combat forgery.
A key feature is the laser engraving technology, which embeds multiple images visible from different angles, significantly increasing the difficulty of duplication.
In a move towards further modernization, the enhanced IDs now include a Machine Readable Zone (MRZ), akin to those found in international passports. This allows for rapid and accurate data retrieval using electronic scanners, streamlining verification processes.
Furthermore, each card features a two-dimensional (2D) barcode containing encrypted personal information. This barcode can be scanned using smartphones or specialized devices, facilitating quick identification, digital verification, and bolstering data protection.
Also Read: Step-by-step guide to using NIRA’s new online portal for national ID registration and renewal
The rollout of these upgraded national IDs is a crucial part of NIRA’s broader strategy to digitize and reinforce Uganda’s identity management system.
The aim is to ensure that citizens and legal residents possess secure, verifiable credentials essential for accessing public services, banking, voting, and travel.
NIRA has assured the public that additional batches of printed IDs will continue to be dispatched in phases, and all applicants will receive official notifications in due course.
Citizens are advised to await official communication before proceeding to collect their cards.
