Government Intensifies National ID Registration in Wakiso District

Authorities in Wakiso District have launched a fresh mobilization campaign to ensure all residents obtain National Identity Cards (NDPs), following a directive from President Museveni. The exercise, spearheaded by Presidential Representative Justine Mbabazi in collaboration with RDCs and RCCs, comes with strict instructions to arrest anyone refusing to register, as this violates national laws. 

During the launch at the Wakiso District headquarters, officials emphasized that possessing a national ID is not optional but a mandatory requirement for all Ugandans. Mbabazi clarified that registration demands presentation of original birth certificates, though those who lost theirs can use police loss reports as alternative documentation. She warned against any attempts to dodge the exercise, stressing that security forces will apprehend defaulters.  

The registration drive will follow a phased approach, beginning at the district level before cascading to sub-counties and town councils. Salimo John Anan, Deputy Chairperson of NIRA's Wakiso committee, explained that teams will progressively cover all villages to ensure comprehensive registration. He reiterated that while the process prioritizes efficiency, proper documentation remains non-negotiable for enrollment.  

Local leaders including Sheri Kalyebara of the Wakiso Women's League and NRM Women's Leader Kayesu Mbabazi Beth hailed the initiative as timely, noting it will resolve longstanding identification challenges. Community representative Ssejengo Sulayiman echoed these sentiments while urging residents to participate actively, citing past difficulties faced by those without IDs in accessing critical services.  

Security personnel have been deployed to enforce compliance, with warnings that undocumented individuals risk arrest. The exercise aims to close existing gaps in national data while facilitating service delivery. Officials maintain that widespread registration will curb identity fraud and streamline access to government programs, financial services, and electoral participation.  

Residents are advised to promptly visit designated centers with required documents to avoid penalties. Authorities anticipate the enhanced registration will achieve near-universal coverage, strengthening Uganda's national identification system. The Wakiso exercise serves as a pilot for similar intensified campaigns across other regions in coming months.  

For those missing documents, officials clarified that police-issued loss reports remain valid for registration. The district has established help desks to guide citizens through the process while combating misinformation about requirements. With mobile registration units planned for remote areas, the government aims to leave no one behind in this crucial national exercise.  

Community leaders continue mobilizing residents through local councils and radio announcements, emphasizing that possessing a national ID is both a civic duty and practical necessity in modern Uganda. The current drive seeks to address previous registration challenges while establishing an accurate, up-to-date national database for improved planning and service delivery.