KAMPALA — The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has launched a nationwide campaign offering free National Identification Numbers (NIN) and birth certificates for newborn babies, provided they are registered within the first six months of birth.
The announcement, made public through an official management directive issued on June 4, 2026, marks a major step forward in the government’s push to achieve universal identity coverage. By eliminating early processing costs, authorities hope to significantly reduce unregistered births across the country.
Under the new directive, parents and legal guardians are urged to document their newborns swiftly. Registration within this initial six-month window bypasses standard administrative fees, removing financial barriers for families navigating early parenthood.
Historically, civil registration coverage in rural and marginalised communities has faced setbacks due to travel distances, lack of information, and administrative costs. This newly unveiled zero-cost window directly addresses the economic constraints that often delay critical identity registration.
A National Identification Number issued at infancy serves as a foundation for a child’s legal existence. It guarantees unhindered access to public health initiatives, immunisation schedules, and eventual enrollment in the national educational framework.
NIRA Management has advised parents to utilise their local registration offices, designated healthcare facilities, and mobile outreach centres to access the service. To complete the enrollment, parents are typically required to present formal hospital birth notifications and valid parental identification documentation.