NIRA expands Diaspora ID renewal centres as exercise gains momentum

The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has announced significant progress in the ongoing national ID renewal exercise, with operations running smoothly both at home and abroad. To further ease access for Ugandans living overseas, the Authority has expanded the number of registration centres in several countries.

Launched in August this year, the diaspora registration exercise was rolled out in response to increasing demand from Ugandans living outside the country. The initiative aims to ensure that all citizens, regardless of location, have access to national identification services.

According to recent updates, Germany now hosts five active registration centres — in Berlin, Cologne, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Nuremberg — a move designed to reach more Ugandans conveniently.

“NIRA has deployed a dedicated team to assist with National ID renewals for all Ugandans living abroad, regardless of location,”
stated the State House Diaspora Unit, referring to the team led by Edwin Tukamuhebwa and comprising seven other members.

In Guangzhou, China, the Uganda Consulate has taken charge of coordinating the registration process for Ugandans across southern China. Ambassador Judyth Nsababera confirmed that between October 2 and 7, a total of 203 Ugandans successfully renewed their National IDs.

To maximize reach, NIRA has also been strategically leveraging major gatherings — including FIFA World Cup qualifier matches and other community events — to engage members of the diaspora.

Meanwhile, on the domestic front, with just 18 days remaining before the close of the mass enrollment and renewal exercise, NIRA reports that its teams have covered all parishes nationwide.

NIRA Registrar Clare Ollama noted that field teams are now prioritizing areas with high demand:

“We are now moving to places where our services are requested. Those who have not seen NIRA teams in their areas should reach out to their respective district offices and file requests for visits.”

After the mass exercise concludes, individuals who have not renewed their National IDs will need to visit NIRA district offices directly for registration.

Ollama further revealed that over three million ID cards have already been produced and dispatched across the country for issuance. However, she clarified that only individuals who have received confirmation notices that their cards are ready can collect them from their respective district offices until mass issuance at the parish level begins.