The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has moved to calm public anxiety following reports that the QR codes on newly issued technologically enhanced national IDs are non-functional.
Since the rollout of the upgraded IDs, many Ugandans have expressed frustration after being turned away by banks and other service providers.
The QR code feature, intended to streamline identity verification, has consistently failed to display data when scanned, sparking complaints on social media platforms like X.
Claire Ollama, NIRA’s National Registrar, confirmed that while citizens have received their physical cards, the digital infrastructure is still being integrated.
“This system was a heavy journey. As we build the new system, the window is not yet open. The QR codes are currently inactive and cannot be read anywhere, but I want to assure the public that this is not permanent. They will be fully operational by March 31,” Ollama said.
The delay has inconvenienced citizens, particularly those seeking financial services where electronic verification is required.
Ollama clarified that there is no need to reprint the cards, emphasizing that the issue is part of the system activation phase rather than a defect with the cards.
“The system has been updated in phases. We have already communicated with over 138 legal entities that require the use of these verification codes. We have guided them on the current approach as we finalize the transition,” she explained.
To bridge the gap until the March deadline, NIRA has provided alternative verification methods between legal entities and the authority to ensure identity authenticity without functional QR codes.
Addressing public concerns, Ollama urged patience. “The system is not yet active, but take peace; it is coming. We are reaching out and helping all entities that need it to ensure no one is permanently blocked from services,” she said.
