Expired National ID Renewal Exercise Extended by 1 Year

When is the new deadline for the renewal of expired national IDs?

The government has announced a one-year extension for the renewal of expired National ID. The Ministry of Internal Affairs revealed that the renewal deadline, initially set for June to September 2024 and later postponed to October 2025, will now extend further, granting citizens additional time to complete the process. Read more about the exercise here.

What has Gen Muhoozi said about the Expired National ID Renewal?

The State Minister for Internal Affairs, General David Muhoozi, made the announcement, assuring the public that the extension does not mean a halt in preparations for the exercise. “The necessary equipment to facilitate the process has already been secured, and staff training on its usage is ongoing,” the Minister stated.

General Muhoozi emphasized the government’s commitment to incorporating advanced technological features into the National Security Information System (NSIS) to enhance the security of the new ID cards. These upgrades are part of the government’s broader efforts to modernize the identification process and address vulnerabilities in the current system.

Concerns Over Delays and Reliance on Physical IDs

During a parliamentary plenary session, members of parliament expressed concerns about the slow pace of the renewal process and the continued dependence on physical identification cards. Rukiga County MP Roland Bish Ndyomugyenyi called for a complete digitalization of the ID renewal system, noting that it could bring significant efficiencies.

Bugiri Municipality MP Asuman Basalirwa echoed these sentiments, raising questions about the financial burden placed on taxpayers to fund such programs. Basalirwa argued for a system that balances technological advancement with affordability for citizens.

In response, General Muhoozi highlighted ongoing efforts to develop digital IDs that would not only ease the financial strain on citizens but also reduce issues surrounding Expired National ID Renewal. He assured the public that the government is streamlining the process to ensure a seamless transition to the updated system.

Why is Government placing an extended deadline for Expired National ID Renewal?

The one-year extension is expected to provide citizens ample time to renew their identification cards while the government finalizes technological enhancements to improve the system. The delay also reflects the government’s intention to integrate new features that will strengthen national security and ensure a smoother mass enrolment exercise in the future.

As the country moves towards digitalization, the renewed efforts to improve the National ID system signal a step forward in addressing security and operational challenges. Citizens are advised to remain vigilant and prepare for the eventual rollout of the updated system.