Bride & Groom Expo: National ID replacement, marriage certificate processing made easy

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This year’s Bride and Groom Expo is not just about planning your dream wedding; it’s about getting your national identification documents in order.

With an entry fee of sh1,0000, you can get your national ID, birth certificates or marriage certificate issued or fixed by the team from the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA).

The expo started today (Friday, June 27) at the Uganda Manufacturers’ Association (UMA) grounds in Lugogo, Kampala and will climax on Sunday night with thrilling music performances and wedding fashion shows. The entrance fee is sh10,000, starting from 8:00 am until 8:00 pm.

At the NIRA stall, you can renew, replace, or register your national ID. And the service is already drawing praise.

“My first point of contact was the NIRA tent,” Joseph Martin Arembe, a private chef, said.

“I came to renew my national ID. The process is simple. You register, get a number, and if you have already applied online, they take your biometrics right away. It only takes a minute or two. I highly recommend everyone to pass by and renew or replace their IDs,” he said.

The service is smooth and orderly, and for many, like Nancy Timmis, a businesswoman, the experience was surprisingly pleasant.

“I came in the morning to renew my ID. Everything was easy. They got us seated and treated us well. I encourage everyone out there to come and take advantage. The services are good.”

Others, like Paul Zalunda from Keybando Kisalosalo, are benefiting from quick replacements.

“I lost my ID. But the process here has been smooth. All I needed was the police letter. The only payment I made was the sh10,000 to enter the expo.”

Even elders like Mzee Livingstone from Kiganda Zone, Kawempe II, are embracing the opportunity.

“We appreciate the work done. However, we also call for these services to be expanded beyond the expo, because many people still need them.”

Marriage registration services on-site

And it’s not just about national IDs. NIRA has gone a step further, offering on-site marriage registration, certificate issuance, account creation for churches, and customary marriage registration.

“People can verify if their marriage is registered, apply for civil marriage, and even receive their certificates during the expo,” said Charles Nsimbi, manager civil registration at NIRA. “It’s important because a marriage certificate is legal proof. You’ll need it for things like visas, insurance, or even after death when dealing with the Administrator General,” he said.

Churches can also open official accounts to submit returns digitally, and individuals are being trained on how to use the system.

“Many have had traditional ceremonies that were never legally registered. We’re here to help fix that,” Nsimbi added.

Marriage services are not entirely free; payments can be made online or via mobile money, but the national ID services, including renewals, replacements, and new registrations, are offered free of charge.

“We encourage everyone who hasn’t registered for an ID or needs a new one to come,” Faridah Nassozi, NIRA’s client relations officer. “Even children can be registered for NINs. Just bring the necessary documents. Those who’ve lost their cards only need a police letter.”

More than just an expo

This year’s theme is “Beyond ‘I Do’: Building a Lifetime Together.” It is sponsored by Pepsi under Crown Beverages, The Looks Bespoke, and Bella Wine, in partnership with Entikko Safari Lodge, Café Javas, Roke Telkom, Dream & Dress, Fontis Residences and Hotel, and Izu Treats.

Entry is just Sh10,000. Follow the buzz online with the hashtags #BrideAndGroomExpo, #BrideAndGroomExpo2025, and #VisionUpdates.