Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja has pledged to address longstanding citizenship challenges faced by the Banyarwanda community in Uganda, signaling the government’s commitment to inclusivity and equality. Her assurance to the Parliament, requesting two months to resolve issues surrounding access to national identification cards and passports, has sparked hope among advocates for justice and fair treatment.
The Prime Minister’s statement follows a high-level meeting on October 23 between President Yoweri Museveni and representatives of the Banyarwanda community. During the meeting, the challenges faced by the community, including allegations of fraudulent registration and the confiscation of critical documents by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) and the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DICIC), were laid bare. These issues have left many Banyarwanda struggling to prove their citizenship, a problem that has deprived them of access to essential services and opportunities.
Hon. Nabbanja reassured Parliament that relevant ministries are actively working to resolve these matters. She emphasized that no Ugandan should be left behind in accessing their rights, noting that the government is committed to rectifying the situation swiftly.
For the Banyarwanda community, this intervention comes as a long-overdue step toward restoring their dignity and addressing years of systemic challenges. The lack of access to national identification has not only marginalized them but also hindered their participation in the country’s social, economic, and political spheres.
However, the journey toward resolution has not been without contention. Critics have raised concerns over the parliamentary committee report on the matter, alleging that it failed to include testimonies from some of the affected individuals. These criticisms highlight the need for a comprehensive and transparent review process to ensure all voices are heard.
Prime Minister Nabbanja’s pledge reflects President Museveni’s long-standing position on unity and equal rights for all Ugandans, regardless of ethnicity. Her assurance to Parliament has reinforced the government’s stance that inclusivity is key to national cohesion.
The next two months will be crucial as the government finalizes its review and implements corrective measures. Success in addressing the concerns of the Banyarwanda community will not only restore vital documentation but also demonstrate Uganda’s commitment to upholding the rights of all its citizens.
This effort is expected to set a precedent for addressing similar grievances across the country, fostering a more inclusive and equitable Uganda for all. Over the years, there have been comaplaints by various Banyarwanda in Uganda caliming to have issues with various authorities and with this assuarance, we await to see the results.
