NIRA Rolls Out ID Renewal Program in Katakwi with Caution on Charges

The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has launched a six-month mass renewal and registration program for national identity cards in Katakwi district.

According to Irene Tumwa, the NIRA Registrar for Katakwi district, the initiative aims to renew expired cards and capture new applicants, estimated to be over 1,000.

Tumwa emphasized the importance of having a valid ID for essential services like travel, bank transactions, and more.

She encouraged residents to take advantage of the program to avoid any inconvenience.

However, she noted that any changes to personal details instilled by the custodian, such as name or date of birth, would incur a fee of 200,000 shillings payable to URA.

The NIRA office in Katakwi has prepared for the exercise by acquiring necessary equipment, including alternative networks and solar power supply to mitigate network coverage and electricity challenges in the area.

Some residents who spoke to us at the St. Stephens NIRA registration point expressed relief at finally getting a chance to renew their expired IDs.

Ronald Olinga, a 73 year old resident of Kampala cell in Katakwi town council, praised the efficient system and encouraged others to participate.

Victor Opede, the Katakwi district Assistant Registration Officer, announced that IDs which were abandoned by the owners are now available for collection at the sub-county level.

NIRA aims to renew and issue IDs to citizens, including those expiring in June 2025, with new features like digital images and iris biometrics.

The authority expects to register over 15 million existing IDs and 17 million new applicants nationwide.

Residents are urged to take advantage of this opportunity to renew their IDs and access essential services without any hassle.