Ugandan national ID to also act as a digital payment tool

Uganda is getting ready to upgrade its National ID system into a powerful digital tool. In just a few weeks, the country will roll out five key features of the Modular Open-Source Identity Platform (MOSIP). This system will help create a stronger and more modern digital identity program for all Ugandans.

Rosemary Kisembo, the head of the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA), said that Uganda has been working closely with developers in India especially the International Institute of Information Technology in Bangalore (IIIT-B), where MOSIP was created. “We’ve been in constant contact with them,” she told The Ankole Times, showing how serious and fast the rollout is moving.

What’s Changing?

NIRA has customized the MOSIP system to fit Uganda’s laws and policies. A pilot program is already running, and in the next 2 to 3 months, the digital system will also include birth and death registrations.

Here are the five new MOSIP features being introduced:

• Registering new IDs

• Renewing expired IDs

• Making changes or updates to personal information

• Issuing new ID cards

• Replacing lost or stolen IDs

But that’s not all. Uganda is also working on launching a Unified Payments Interface (UPI), a new system that will allow Ugandans to send and receive money more easily.

India’s digital ID system inspired this change. Kisembo called it a major step forward and said Uganda could learn from it. However, she also noted that long-term funding will be needed to make sure Uganda’s digital systems can grow and stay strong.

Related articles:

• Uganda to Start mass National ID Renewal in May 2025

• Ugandans of Rwandan origin Identity crisis: Frank Gashumba blasts Minister of internal affairs Gen. Otafiire

Bigger Vision for Uganda’s Digital Future

To make this plan a success, Uganda has already:

• Deployed thousands of biometric kits

• Hired many workers to collect and verify personal data

• Increased efforts to print and issue ID cards

This massive registration drive is expected to add over 17 million Ugandans to the national digital system.

Uganda’s shift to a digital ID and payments system marks a major move towards modern governance, financial inclusion, and easier access to services for all citizens.