By Weswa Ronnie
MBALE CITY
The Regional Immigration Office in Mbale, under the Ministry of Internal Affairs, in partnership with NIRA Uganda, kicked off a two-day passport sensitization clinic and mass National ID registration.
The event is taking place at the Mbale Cricket Grounds in Mbale City from Thursday to today Friday, 25th April, 2025.
A team from the Immigration Directorate Kampala is leading the engagement, guiding the public on key passport matters including, passport application and renewal assistance, requirements, fees, and offering free consultations and step-by-step help with the application process to address public concerns.
While opening the function yesterday Thursday, Yahaya Were the Mbale city deputy RCC who represented RCC emphasized the importance of acquiring passports, calling them essential public documents for every Ugandan.
“The issue of passports is very important. Let’s continue encouraging our people to come, get information, and begin the process. Once you get your passport, use it responsibly and avoid breaking the law,” Were said.
He also urged the youth to steer clear of human trafficking. “Many young people, after getting passports, fall into the hands of illegal agents. Use only government-approved companies to travel and work abroad safely,” he added.
Denis Otim, an Immigration Specialist from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, explained that Uganda issues three types of passports, Ordinary Passport at UGX 250,000, Service Passport UGX 400,000 and Diplomatic Passport UGX 500,000 depending on the holder’s office.
He noted that a National ID is the primary requirement for passport application. For children aged 0 to 17.9 years, a birth certificate is required to verify parental information.
“Passports and travel documents can be obtained from our regional offices in Mbale, Gulu, Mbarara, Jinja, Kampala, and from Ugandan embassies in cities such as London, Washington D.C., Pretoria in S. Africa, Beijing in China, Abu Dhabi in UAE and Copenhagen in Denmark,” Otim said.
Namutebi Fatuma, the manager Regional Immigration Officer Mbale, expressed gratitude to the public for their participation.
She encouraged attendees to mobilize others to attend future sessions and stressed the importance of direct application.
“These sensitization drives will continue from time to time. Please support us by showing up. Do not fall victim to conmen or middlemen. The passport fees remain unchanged,” Namutebi said.
She advised the public to apply online to avoid fraud. “Even if you’re not educated, ask a trusted relative to help. Don’t pay people unnecessarily. Our offices are open just with your file, and our staff will assist you, especially if you have an appointment,” she concluded.
Samuel Wakoko and Peter Kuloba one of the residents from the city expressed their happiness with the exercise saying the matter of online will leave most people out since majority can’t access the Internet and gadgets
