The Ministry of Internal Affairs, in collaboration with the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC), has urged Ugandans with expired National IDs to use passports or apply for Certificates of Identity when travelling to neighbouring countries such as Kenya and Rwanda.

The advisory comes after numerous Ugandans reported being denied entry into these countries due to expired National Identity Cards.

Simon Peter Mundeyi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Internal Affairs and DCIC, confirmed that several complaints had been raised about the issue.

To address the travel challenges, DCIC has recommended that Ugandans either travel with valid passports or apply for a Certificate of Identity at a fee of UGX 40,000.

According to Mundeyi, this document is accepted across all East African Community (EAC) and COMESA member states.

“The face value of these National IDs has expired, and they are being rejected by authorities at the border. We advise travellers to use passports. For those without passports, the Certificate of Identity is a viable alternative and is recognised regionally,” Mundeyi explained.

Majority of Ugandans received their National IDs in 2014 under the leadership of the late Gen. Aronda Nyakayirima, then Minister for Internal Affairs.

These IDs reached their expiry in September and October 2024, creating widespread inconveniences for holders.

Current Minister of Internal Affairs, Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Kahinda Otafiire, and State Minister Gen. David Muhoozi, have assured the public that the renewal of National IDs will begin in January 2025. They noted that delays were due to the need for new equipment to integrate advanced features such as facial recognition.

Mass Renewal Exercise in 2025

Mundeyi urged Ugandans to prepare for the upcoming mass renewal exercise, which will be managed by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA). “We call on all Ugandans to participate in the renewal process. Ensure your National ID is renewed when the exercise begins,” he said.

In the meantime, Ugandans travelling to Kenya, Rwanda, or other regional destinations are advised to plan ahead and secure alternative travel documents. The Ministry’s initiative to provide Certificates of Identity offers a temporary solution, but the reliance on passports or other identification highlights the urgency for a streamlined renewal process.

With the mass renewal exercise set to commence next year, the government has assured citizens of a smooth and efficient process, ensuring that the new IDs meet international standards and eliminate such inconveniences in the future.