(Kampala) — A senior Ugandan official has warned South Sudanese refugees living in Uganda not to attempt to acquire Ugandan national identity cards illegally, as the country continues a mass registration and renewal campaign for its citizens’ National Identity Cards (NIDs).
The registration exercise which began in May 2025 is aimed at updating the national database and issuing new ID cards to Ugandan nationals. The process has drawn large crowds across registration centres nationwide, with the Ministry of Internal Affairs overseeing the operation.
Authorities in Uganda have raised concerns over reports that some non citizens, including South Sudanese refugees, may try to exploit the process to obtain national documents unlawfully. Officials have made it clear that only Ugandan nationals are eligible to participate in the current registration campaign.
Speaking to the media, a representative from Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs cautioned refugees against submitting false information to registration officials.
“Any non citizen who attempts to acquire a Ugandan National ID by deception is committing a crime,” the official said. “Such individuals will face prosecution according to Ugandan law.”
South Sudanese nationals currently make up one of the largest refugee populations in Uganda, with more than one million people displaced by years of conflict. Many reside in settlements across northern Uganda, including in the districts of Kiryandongo, Yumbe, Adjumani and Moyo.
Ugandan authorities have assured refugees that their status remains protected under national and international law, and that no part of the identity card registration process affects their rights as asylum seekers or recognised refugees.
The Office of the Prime Minister and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) continue to manage refugee affairs in Uganda. These agencies work closely with the Ugandan government to ensure that refugees have access to services without needing to obtain documents reserved for citizens.
The current registration drive is expected to continue over several months and is part of a broader effort by Ugandan authorities to improve digital identity systems and curb misuse of public resources.
Officials say the move will help address fraud, improve access to government services, and strengthen national security.
Ugandan citizens have been encouraged to register using legal identification and documentation.
In contrast, foreigners, including South Sudanese nationals, have been reminded that any attempt to bypass immigration or civil registration laws could lead to deportation or legal penalties.
As of June 2025, fines and penalties for violations of Uganda’s national identification laws can reach up to 500,000 Ugandan Shillings (approximately USD $130) or higher, depending on the severity of the offence.
The South Sudanese embassy in Kampala has urged refugees in Uganda to respect host country laws while continuing to benefit from humanitarian protection. Community leaders have also advised youth not to be misled by rumours or false promises of citizenship or job opportunities through fraudulent means.
Accurate identity records are considered essential for delivering basic services and planning development programmes. With elections expected in both countries in the near future, concerns over identity, migration, and political participation remain high on the agenda.
Uganda remains one of the most generous host countries in Africa, providing land, education,and health services to refugees. However, officials have insisted that hospitality must not be confused with legal citizenship.
