Uganda to Start mass National ID Renewal in May 2025

The government of Uganda has announced that the renewal of national ID cards will officially begin in May 2025. To prepare for the full rollout, the first phase will focus on renewing IDs for government employees, starting with staff from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the National Identification Registration Authority (NIRA).

Minister of State for Internal Affairs, General David Muhoozi, said this pilot program will help test all systems and tools before the national process begins. He assured Parliament that the software and equipment have already been fully tested and are ready to use.

Muhoozi added that he will soon present a detailed report to explain how the national ID renewal and registration will be carried out across the country.

Parliament Pushes for Fast Action Before 2026 Elections

Several Members of Parliament have expressed concern that many Ugandans are still using expired national IDs. With the 2026 general elections coming up, MPs warned that people could be blocked from voting if their IDs are not renewed in time.

MP Milton Muwuma from Kigulu County South emphasized the urgency of the renewal, saying it is necessary to make sure all eligible voters can take part in the elections.

Another lawmaker, MP Isaias Ssasaga from Budadiri County East, asked about students in primary and secondary schools who had registered for national IDs but never received them. In response, Minister Muhoozi said students would have the option to either keep their current IDs or apply for new ones with improved security features.

Budget Shortfall Threatens ID Renewal Program

Despite the plans, funding remains a big challenge. The government needs 145 billion Ugandan shillings to renew more than five million IDs and register over six million new people. However, only 24.5 billion shillings have been allocated in the next budget.

The Parliament’s committee reviewing the program has recommended that an additional 120.7 billion shillings be added to the budget to make sure the ID renewal is completed before the 2026 elections.

Sub-County Policing Model Set for National Rollout

Alongside the national ID renewal, the government is planning to expand the sub-county policing model throughout the country. This model, which was first tested in the Greater Masaka region during the 2023/2024 financial year, is meant to increase police presence in communities.

However, the national rollout requires 587 billion shillings, which has not yet been funded.

MP Brenda Nabukenya from Luwero District supported the idea, but pointed out the need to include fuel costs for the motorcycles that will be given to police officers. She said that in the past, a lack of fuel made it hard for police to respond quickly.

On the other hand, MP Emely Kugonza from Buyanja East County said the plan lacks proper preparation. He noted that many areas still do not have police posts or decent housing for officers. Kugonza believes the idea is good, but must be backed by careful planning.

MP Frank Kabuye from Kassanda County South shared that there is only one vehicle for emergency response in his entire area. He called for more police vehicles, motorcycles, and funding for their maintenance.

Government Plans to Provide Electric Motorcycles

To deal with the problem of fuel shortages, Muhoozi said the government is planning to introduce electric motorcycles for the police force. This solution is expected to lower fuel costs while giving officers better transport options.

He added that the government is working to improve police working conditions, especially when it comes to transportation and housing.