Cabinet approves replacing old TINs with NINs
For a long time, the tax registration system has relied on a manual TIN- based process, leaving the country with outdated records, creating weaknesses in data accuracy which affect service delivery.
The Minister of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and National Guidance, Justine Kasule Lumumba, addressing journalists during a press conference at the Uganda Media Centre on September 1, 2026. (Credit: Nancy Nanyonga)
KAMPALA - In a bid to unify government digital services and streamline tax administration, cabinet has approved the use of the National Identification Number (NIN) issued by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) as the Tax Identification Number (TIN), moving forward.
The revelation was made by the Minister of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and National Guidance, Justine Kasule Lumumba, during an engagement with journalists at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala today (September 1, 2026).
For a long time, the tax registration system has relied on a manual TIN- based process, leaving the country with outdated records, creating weaknesses in data accuracy which affect service delivery.
“This will improve the accuracy of our taxpayer register, strengthen our ability to identify and trace taxpayers, and make our data systems work better,” she said.
The Minister of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and National Guidance, Justine Kasule Lumumba, interacting with Alan Kasujja, the Executive Director Uganda Media Centre. This was during a press conference at the Uganda Media Centre on September 1, 2026. (Credit: Nancy Nanyonga)
Lumumba also pointed out that use of the NIN will make it simpler for citizens to register and communicate with tax authorities.
Business community comments
In response, the business community welcomed the move. Thadeus Musoke, the President of the National Entrepreneurs and Traders Association, commended the Government for the initiative, stating that it will improve tax compliance.
“There is nothing wrong with that. We urge the business community to adhere, and we have been aware of this shift for a while now,” he said.
He noted that using the NIN will also assist the Government in identifying interventions to improve revenue collection.