I am pleased to share Cente-Tech’s active participation in the recently concluded State of Digital Economy (SODE) Conference, hosted by NextComUg on July 26th, 2024.
Centenary Technology Services (Cente-Tech) has consistently been at the forefront of technological innovation, driving sustainable growth and creating transformative digital solutions across Uganda and the Southern Africa region. Our involvement in the SODE Conference underscored our commitment to shaping the future of Uganda’s digital economy, fostering an environment where technology and innovation thrive.
Uganda has seen a steady increase in internet penetration, with approximately 23 million internet users as of early 2024. The conference featured a series of expert panels and keynotes that provided deep insights into critical topics such as digital infrastructure, e-commerce, digital financial services, and cybersecurity. These discussions offered valuable perspectives on harnessing the power of digital technologies to drive growth and innovation.
The Digital Transformation Roadmap: A Key Anchor in Uganda’s Socio-Economic Transformation
A central theme of the SODE Conference was the Digital Transformation Roadmap, which is pivotal in the socio-economic transformation of Uganda. The roadmap builds on commitments set under the Digital Uganda Vision by focusing on imperatives to achieve operational momentum and make great strides that translate from paper to action. It is structured around five critical pillars:
- Digital Infrastructure, and Accessibility: This pillar aims to provide universal and cost-effective access to digital tools, bridging the gap between urban and rural areas, and ensuring every Ugandan can access the worldwide digital network.
- Digital Services: The plan envisions a revamped Ugandan public service framework through digital innovations to simplify procedures, minimize administrative hold-ups, and boost citizen satisfaction in essential areas like health, education, transport, and farming.
- Cyber Safety, Data Security, and Confidentiality: In today’s world of frequent data violations, this pillar emphasizes the need for strong cyber protection and fostering digital awareness to safeguard citizens’ information.
- Digital Skilling: Recognizing that the digitally skilled will lead the future, this pillar concentrates on equipping Ugandans with digital expertise, ensuring they remain competitive on a global scale.
- Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Promoting Indigenous solutions and celebrating innovators, this pillar nurtures a favorable environment for creativity, aiming to shift Uganda from a digital user to a notable digital influencer globally.
The roadmap is a key anchor in our efforts to transform Uganda’s digital landscape, guiding us towards a more inclusive and dynamic digital economy. Understanding how different sectors align their strategies with this roadmap is crucial for its success. By assessing the alignment of strategies among Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), as well as private sector players, we can identify gaps and develop a comprehensive, cross-sector response to these challenges.
See also: Uganda’s VP, Jessica Alupo launches the ambitious Digital Transformation Roadmap
Key highlight from the SODE Conference
The Guest of Honor, Dr. Aminah Zawedde, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT, highlighted some crucial statistics and directives. While Uganda boasts 37.3 million mobile money accounts, there are only 12 million smartphone users. Taking into account the duplicity of phone and sim card ownership, the PS. instructed the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) to ensure that the gap between mobile money users and smartphone owners reduces from double digits to single digits within 12 months. This directive aims to increase the number of smartphone users, thereby bringing more Ugandans into the digital world.
Looking ahead with optimism
As we reflect on the outcomes of the SODE Conference, the anticipation for the groundbreaking ideas, meaningful discussions, and strategic partnerships that emerged is immense. At Cente-Tech, we remain dedicated to contributing to Uganda’s digital transformation, ensuring that the digital economy is inclusive, resilient, and prosperous for all.
To quote an old adage, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” We are not only on this journey but making significant strides forward. As we move forward, it is imperative that we continue to invest in our people, embrace digital technologies, and collaborate across sectors to ensure Uganda’s digital transformation is far-reaching and inclusive.
The SODE Conference has set the stage for a brighter, digitally empowered future for our nation.
Editor’s Note: Written and submitted to PC Tech Magazine by Steven Kirenga, General Manager of Product & Business Development and Customer Experience at Cente Tech.
See also: ITU Secretary-General, Doreen Bogdan-Martin applauds Uganda’s Digital Transformation Roadmap
