KAMPALA — The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has launched a nationwide initiative offering free National Identification Numbers (NINs) and birth certificates for newborn babies, provided registration is completed within the first six months of birth.
The announcement, issued through an official management directive dated June 4, 2026, is part of government efforts to achieve universal identity coverage and reduce the number of unregistered births across the country.
Under the new policy, parents and legal guardians are encouraged to register newborns early, with all administrative fees waived for applications submitted within the six-month window after birth.
Officials say the measure is designed to remove financial barriers that have historically contributed to low registration rates, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach communities where access to civil registration services is limited.
A National Identification Number issued at birth is considered a key foundation for a child’s legal identity, enabling access to public services including healthcare, immunisation programmes, and future school enrolment.
“Securing an identity right at birth is fundamental to safeguarding the rights of every child,” noted a registration officer. “This mechanism ensures that the state can effectively account for, protect, and plan infrastructure around its youngest population segment from day one.”
Civil society groups and child rights advocates have welcomed the directive, describing it as a significant step toward strengthening legal identity systems and protecting children from risks such as trafficking, child labour, and age-related legal disputes.
NIRA management has urged parents to take advantage of local registration offices, health facilities, and mobile outreach centres to access the service. Applicants are required to present hospital birth notifications and valid parental identification documents to complete the registration process.