Uganda has taken a decisive step in strengthening the pillars of its democracy with the acquisition of 60,000 state-of-the- art biometric voter- verification kits ahead of the 2026 General Elections. This move signals a clear national commitment to electoral integrity, transparency, and trust in public institutions.
At a time when global democracies are increasingly turning to technology to ensure credible electoral processes, Uganda is not only keeping pace but setting an example in the region. “These kits represent a major boost to our efforts toward a transparent and credible election.” Justice Simon Byabakama, Chairperson, Electoral Commission.
Justice Simon Byabakama and the Electoral Commission team inspect newly arrived biometric voter kits at Entebbe International Airport ahead of the 2026 polls equipped with advanced fingerprint and facial-recognition technology will play a central role in verifying voter identity, eliminating impersonation, and ensuring that every eligible Ugandan’s vote is counted once, and only once.
Integrated with the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) database, the system enhances accuracy, secures voter data, and modernizes electoral administration in line with global best practices. This investment is not merely technological; it represents a restoration and protection of public confidence in the electoral process.
Training for District Returning Officers and election staff is already underway, demonstrating strong institutional preparedness and commitment to smooth and transparent poll administration. Capacity-building is not an afterthought it is a priority. “This technology is not just about elections; it is about trust in institutions and modernization of our democracy.” Justice Simon Byabakama, Chairperson, Electoral Commission Civil-society organizations, observers, and citizen groups have welcomed the biometric-kit rollout as a strategic milestone in entrenching democratic values.
It reflects a nation intent on delivering free, fair, and peaceful elections grounded in integrity, accountability, and civic empowerment. Uganda’s move places it firmly among African nations modernizing their electoral processes to uphold the people’s will. It is an affirmation that democracy is not static it grows stronger when strengthened by innovation and vigilance. Beyond elections, this initiative aligns with Uganda’s wider government digitization agenda from e-governance and secure national ID systems to digital payments, smart public- service delivery, and national-security modernization.
Harnessing Technology to Deepen Transparency, Accountability, and Trust in Uganda’s Democracy By Florence Mukankusi, Communication & Publication Relations Officer
