By Sekaggya Seka Moses
Kampala, Uganda – In a significant move to streamline government operations and curb public expenditure, Uganda’s Parliament has approved the transfer of civil marriage registration from the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) to the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA).
This is part of the government’s broader initiative to rationalize agencies and eliminate administrative redundancies within the public sector.
The transfer aims to foster efficiency by consolidating civil registration activities under one entity.
NIRA Assumes New Mandate
Under the new arrangement, NIRA will assume full responsibility for registering all types of marriages, including civil, faith-based, and customary unions.
The agency will maintain and oversee the national marriage register, previously managed by URSB.
“NIRA’s expanded mandate will enhance service delivery and reduce operational costs,” said a government spokesperson.
“This reform aligns with our commitment to efficient governance and effective public service.”
Streamlining Services
The integration of marriage registration with NIRA’s existing national identification register is expected to reduce overlap in functions between agencies.
This consolidation will enhance data management and record-keeping, simplify the registration process for citizens, reduce administrative costs
Broader Reform Agenda
This transfer forms part of a comprehensive strategy to consolidate public institutions with overlapping mandates.
Ongoing rationalization efforts have already seen several agencies merged, dissolved, or restructured.
“The government remains committed to delivering efficient and cost-effective public services,” said the spokesperson.
“This reform demonstrates our dedication to improving governance and serving Ugandan citizens.”
The transfer is expected to take effect immediately, with NIRA commencing marriage registration services in the coming weeks.
