Iris Biometrics to be Integrated in Uganda's National ID System

Published Date: 01/07/2024

The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) is set to introduce iris biometrics as an enhanced security feature in national identity cards, catering to individuals with damaged fingerprints.

The Ugandan government has announced plans to incorporate iris biometrics into the national identity card system. This move aims to provide an alternative for individuals who are unable to provide fingerprints due to various reasons such as birth defects, injuries, or scars. According to Rosemary Kisembo, the executive director of the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA), the new system will utilize both facial recognition and iris biometrics. Kisembo explained that the addition of iris biometrics will enhance security and make it easier for individuals to access social services that require national IDs. MPs had raised concerns about citizens with damaged fingerprints, who are unable to access these services. The introduction of iris biometrics is part of a larger effort to modernize the national ID system, which has been allocated 208 billion shillings. NIRA plans to issue IDs more quickly, with a goal of reducing the processing time to two to three days. The authority is also preparing for a mass registration campaign to enroll approximately 18.1 million unregistered citizens, primarily children under 17, into its database. Despite initial funding delays, Kisembo expressed optimism about starting the process by July or August. In addition, NIRA is seeking a permanent headquarters, as its current location at Kololo Independence Grounds is frequently disrupted by official events.

FAQs:

Q: Why is the Ugandan government introducing iris biometrics in national ID cards?

A: The introduction of iris biometrics aims to provide an alternative for individuals who are unable to provide fingerprints due to various reasons such as birth defects, injuries, or scars.

Q: What is the purpose of the mass registration campaign by NIRA?

A: The mass registration campaign aims to enroll approximately 18.1 million unregistered citizens, primarily children under 17, into NIRA's database.

Q: Why does NIRA need a permanent headquarters?

A: NIRA's current location at Kololo Independence Grounds is frequently disrupted by official events, making it necessary to have a permanent headquarters.

Q: How much funding has been allocated for the new national ID system?

A: The new national ID system has been allocated 208 billion shillings.

Q: When is NIRA expected to start the mass registration campaign?

A: NIRA expects to start the mass registration campaign by July or August, pending the resolution of initial funding delays.

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