government 1 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Approves NIN as Universal Tax ID to Enhance Revenue Collection
The Ugandan Cabinet has approved the use of the National Identification Number (NIN) as the standard Tax Identification Number (TIN), a move aimed at simplifying tax compliance and boosting revenue collection. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/cabinet-approves-use-of-nin-as-tin-to-boost-revenue-collection-5578966
The Ugandan government has officially endorsed a significant policy shift, designating the National Identification Number (NIN) as the primary Tax Identification Number (TIN) for all citizens. This strategic decision, confirmed by the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Justine Kasule Lumumba, seeks to overhaul the existing tax registration system, which has long relied on separate, often manual, processes.
The integration of NINs into the tax framework is expected to address persistent challenges in revenue mobilization, including tax evasion and data inconsistencies across government agencies. Uganda has historically grawppled with a narrow tax base and low tax-to-GDP ratios, exacerbated by a large informal economy and difficulties in tracking transactions.
Minister Lumumba highlighted that adopting the NIN as the universal TIN will create a single, verifiable identity for every taxpayer. This harmonization is anticipated to significantly improve the accuracy of taxpayer registers, enhance the Uganda Revenue Authority’s (URA) capacity to identify and monitor taxpayers, and foster better interoperability between various government data systems.
Furthermore, the reform is designed to streamline interactions between citizens and tax administrators, making it simpler for individuals to comply with tax obligations. The government also expects this move to provide greater visibility into global earnings, thereby reducing revenue leakages and supporting more effective national planning and service delivery. This initiative is a key component of the government’s broader strategy to increase domestic revenue collection and lessen reliance on external borrowing.