Uganda, through the National Information Technology Authority (NITA) Uganda, has laid 4,387 kilometers of optic fiber cable across 57 districts which I believe is a bold statement on Uganda’s commitment to connectivity. On top of that, 1,567 government sites including MDAs and DLGs are plugged into the National Backbone Infrastructure (NBI) with access to fast, reliable internet which has become a norm, not an exception.

This is more than infrastructure, it’s a lifeline to better public services, especially in health, education, and governance.

See also: Pres. Museveni launches Phase 5 of the NBI to extend internet connectivity to Karamoja, Lango, and Acholi sub-regions

This connectivity is not only about the government but also empowers businesses to innovate, entrepreneurs to thrive, and students to access global learning resources. The ripple effect will be felt in every corner of the economy, fostering a culture of digital inclusion.

Today, the dramatic reduction in internet prices from USD$205 (approx. UGX752,000) in FY 2021/22 to USD$35 (approx. UGX129,000) marks a turning point. Affordable connectivity is no longer a luxury for the elite but a necessary tool for all, democratizing access to information, leveling the playing field for entrepreneurs, and accelerating innovation. In addition, internet penetration has soared from 25% in 2017 to 67%, putting Uganda as a leader in Africa’s digital transformation. This is not just about access; it is about unlocking human potential on a massive scale.

Digital governance

62% of government services have so far been digitized which is a transforming milestone for public service delivery. Gone are the days of endless queues and bureaucratic red tape. From applying for official documents to paying taxes, Ugandans can now access vital services online, in the comfort of their offices and homes. This shift not only enhances efficiency but also boosts transparency and accountability, essential pillars for good governance. It is a model for how governments can leverage technology to serve their citizens better and foster trust.

Empowering education and public access

ICT in education is the cornerstone of Uganda’s digital future. The government has established ICT labs in 1,400 public secondary schools and provided high-speed internet to 485 schools, these are all investments for not only the current generation of school-going ages but the next generations too. It is also an innovation that will produce future creators and innovators, these young minds are being equipped with the skills to thrive in a digital economy, ensuring that Uganda’s workforce remains competitive in a global marketplace.

Furthermore, 37 national libraries and public access centers have been upgraded with ICT facilities to ensure that even those without personal access to technology can still benefit from the digital revolution. This is true inclusivity in action.

Expanding media and mobile coverage

Digital terrestrial TV and radio signal coverage is now at 85% and 90% respectively, and mobile cellular signal coverage reaching 89%, Uganda’s communication landscape has never been more vibrant. This expanded reach ensures that every Ugandan, regardless of location, can access vital information and entertainment, fostering a more informed and engaged citizenry.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the progress is remarkable, there is still work to be done. Expanding optic fiber coverage to all districts, increasing broadband penetration, and ensuring that digital literacy keeps pace with technological advancements are critical next steps.

However, the foundation has been laid, and the momentum is unstoppable. Uganda’s commitment to ICT as a driver of national productivity and global competitiveness is clear. The challenge now is to ensure that this digital transformation benefits every Ugandan, leaving no one behind.

A Future Full of Promise

Uganda’s ICT achievements are more than just technological milestones. They are the building blocks of a brighter, more inclusive future. By continuing to invest in connectivity, affordability, and digital skills, Uganda is not just keeping up with the digital age, it is leading the charge. This is a moment to celebrate, but also a call to action: to dream bigger, innovate further, and ensure that every Ugandan can thrive in this new digital era.

Editor’s Note: The article was written by Caroline Mbolanyi, Communications Officer at Government Citizen Interaction Centre at State House

The post OP-ED: Uganda’s Steady Progress in ICT is a Key Driver to Socio-Economic Transformation appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

In this stage of the hype cycle, an investment bubble can form as businesses are promised that the new technology will transform every aspect of their operations for the better. And what results is a number of impressive success stories and scores of dismal failures.

While generative AI does appear to present many exciting opportunities, it’s easy to become fatigued by the relentless hype; especially if you’re one of the many businesses that has deployed AI with high hopes but haven’t achieved the results you were after. But the problem with any kind of hype is that when everyone is talking about something, we tend to want to try it out so that we can be part of the conversation too. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing as long as the investments you make align with your business strategy and you have a clear roadmap that outlines how you’re going to use AI to reach broader business goals.

A balanced approach

In 2024, it’s more important than ever to cut through the noise and adopt AI in a way that aligns with real business needs.

AI should not be adopted just because it’s trendy.

It should be deployed because it’s the right solution to address a specific problem. As such, it may be a better idea for you to channel your focus and budget to restructuring your existing databases or improving current processes because this offers better returns than an AI implementation.

In addition to this, when developing your AI strategy, it’s vital to remember that AI is not the only way to solve a problem. Your AI deployment should complement and not replace humans.

During the industrial revolution, we saw new machines and new ways of organising work transform entire industries, making them more productive and efficient. But the machines didn’t take over entirely because the human touch is critical. With this in mind, modern businesses need to find a way to strike a happy balance between leveraging AI for efficiency, while also maintaining human oversight so that they can guarantee that the technology delivers real, sustainable value.

This, in large part, comes down to having the necessary expertise to get the most out of AI; especially when dealing with legacy systems. If, for example, you get swept along by the AI hype but your company’s data landscape isn’t in great shape, you’re going to hit some roadblocks. Put simply, if you lack clean, usable data, AI won’t deliver the expected benefits. Before embarking on any AI implementation, be mindful of the fact that data quality has a massive impact on model performance. So, if you have data issues, these should be addressed upfront.

Right now, the challenge many businesses face is when to pull the trigger. While early adoption comes with higher upfront costs and greater risks, those that get involved early are the first to overcome the initial hurdles and really start experiencing the benefits of this new technology.

Conversely, the businesses that hang back a little can draw on the experience of the early adopters; understanding how the innovation can be used to good effect and, just as importantly, where it adds little or no value.

Whatever you decide, it all comes down to implementing AI thoughtfully and with a clear plan in place so that you can realise the potential of this technology when the time is right.

And always remember that AI is an enabler, not a solution in itself.

Editor’s Note: This article was written by Saša Slankamenac, Architect in the office of the CTO and AI lead at Dariel Software

The post OP-ED: Avoid the Hype to Unlock Real Value From AI appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

While that is encouraging, it is also true that mobile money currently mostly serves as a conduit for the transfer of money, people receive money and cash it out. So while they are now in the formal financial system, they are underbanked or unbanked, not taking advantage of the financial sector services beyond transferring and receiving money. The reasons for these are many, not least of all that they have no history of trusting a third party with their money.

We should not be surprised. For starters, not all districts in Uganda have a bank branch, so access to the formal financial sector is limited or none existent for the majority of Ugandans until the advent of mobile money.

Trust in the financial sector is critical to not only greater financial inclusion but onwards to the maximum exploitation of the benefits of this inclusion and with emerging technologies, the opportunities to leverage are immense.

Blockchain technologies promise a world where the cost of transactions will collapse, and financial services will be available to even the most basic phones, all at the speed of light.

Think of blockchain as a distributed ledger, where transactions are recorded in real-time and are immutable, and unchangeable once all the parties have agreed to the transaction.

One of the challenges in ensuring widespread financial inclusion was the integrity of the data. For instance, transfers will be effected and the real beneficiaries will get the money wherever they are. The chances for this data to be compromised either intentionally or not, are high, the more hands the data goes through.

Blockchain with one fell sweep removes all that friction and guarantees the integrity of the information. This is why blockchain technologies are tailor-made for the demanding needs for credibility and integrity the financial sector requires.

To paint a picture of the financial industry of the future, riding on blockchain technologies; Opening an account would be seamless, as all your KYC (Know Your Customer) details will be available on the blockchain network the banks have access to. Your ability to credit will be much easier as your credit history will be available. This may go a long way to lowering lending rates as financial institutions would be able to customize products to clients.

Imagine the savings and the ability to reach more people wherever they are with the help of blockchain technologies.

Currently, a blockchain committee has been constituted involving banks, fintechs, and telecommunication companies, spearheaded by the Bank of Uganda to look into the modalities of adoption and regulation. This of course ensures the public is protected from the risks of blockchain but more importantly to steer its adoption, leading to the exploitation of these technologies for Ugandans.

See also: Private sector players in tech and finance stepped up to form the Blockchain Association of Uganda

PostBank has invested in infrastructure and innovation like Wendi mobile wallet which is designed to offer seamless financial services to underserved and last-mile customers. Therefore, users can access, manage, and transact funds efficiently on a smartphone and feature phone —and this financial inclusion strategy perfectly aligns with the bank’s purpose of fostering prosperity for Ugandans.

Just as the mobile phone has liberated billions of shillings from under our mattresses and our socks, the increased trust that blockchain technologies introduce will see more money coming into the formal financial sector.

Entities have made heavy investments in technology and built capacity and once the green light is given the industry will be ready to go. Therefore, Blockchain technologies will be a real game changer for the personal finance and development of countries that tap into such new emerging technologies like blockchain.

Editor’s Note: The writer for this article Francis Lutalo is the Head of Business Technology at PostBank Uganda

The post OP-ED: Blockchain Technology Will Energize Financial Inclusion appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

This technological shift has transformed how Ugandans and small businesses secure credit. Digital loans are now available to anyone with an active mobile wallet or account. For many, this is life-changing, farmers can now secure loans to purchase fertilizers, small businesses can access quick funds to stock up on items and individuals can handle unexpected expenses with a click of a button.

As the school season begins, digital loans provide a valuable opportunity for parents to invest in their children’s education, easing financial pressures and securing a brighter future. Telecommunication companies such as Airtel have evolved from only providing communication services to including financial services in their products. This level of accessibility is particularly significant in a country where traditional banking is inaccessible to the underserved population, especially in rural areas.

The 2023 Financial Sector Deepening (FSD) Uganda annual report states that traditional and conventional financial services rarely or hardly deploy digital technology in delivering their service. This has proved ineffective in increasing financial inclusion for the unserved and underserved. This is due to their high operating costs, legacy business models, and limited competition and innovation. On the other hand, digital financial services (DFS), enabled by fintech, have the potential to lower costs, increase speed, security, and transparency, and allow for more tailored financial services that serve the underserved at scale. This creates an opportunity for businesses such as Telecommunication companies to create innovative financial solutions for their customers.

Digital micro-loans such as LetsGo Pesa loans by Airtel Money and Letshego which was launched in September this year, is a fintech breaking down these barriers by offering financial services to anyone with an Airtel Money account, regardless of location. By leveraging mobile technology, a parent can access a loan between UGX20,000 and UGX700,000 payable in 30 days. The said parent can go ahead to skip the long traditional bank lines and pay his/her child’s school fees through Airtel Money School pay.

The Uganda Communication Commission (UCC) Market Performance Report 4Q FY 2023/24 (April – June 2024) stated that the second quarter of 2024 recorded 38.5 million active mobile subscriptions and 44.2 million mobile money registrations so far. This is an indication that as mobile penetration continues to increase, digital loans will only become prevalent.

Looking ahead, the demand for digital loans is expected to grow, driven by the convenience and speed that they offer while evolving to offer more personalized and flexible financial services.

As more Ugandans become digitally literate and mobile-savvy, digital loans will continue to revolutionize financial inclusion. Additionally, with the country’s young, tech-oriented population, the adoption of digital-first financial solutions will be more popular.

Editor’s Note: The writer of this article Hope Ekudu is the Head of Airtel Money Operations at Airtel Money (U) Limited

The post OP-ED: The Era of Digital Loans is Here, and it’s Only Just the Beginning appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

MTN MoMo offers a wide range of services, including a robust credit ecosystem that enhances financial access and supports economic growth across the country. Through partnerships with respected financial institutions like NCBA, KCB, PostBank Uganda, and Jumo, MTN MoMo has brought to the customers several innovative products—such as MoKash, MoPesa, XtraCash, MoMo Advance, Mosente, and XtraStock. These offerings meet the diverse financial needs of our customers, from personal loans for individuals to credit options for small businesses, helping millions of unbanked and underserved citizens simply by dialing 165*5# and following prompts.

Imagine a small shop owner easily ordering new stock or a boda-boda rider obtaining a microloan to purchase another motorcycle. With services like MoKash, MoSente, and Xtracash, customers can access savings, credit, and overdraft options. MTN MoMo has also expanded its network of providers by incorporating KCB, PostBank, and Jumo through the launch of MoPesa, XtraCash, and Mosente respectively. However, to encourage responsible borrowing, customers can only take credit from one provider at a time and must pay off any previous debts before accessing new credit.

The impact of MTN MoMo goes far beyond individual users. Its Zimba Business service is specifically designed to support small enterprises by providing quick loans and enabling seamless merchant-to-merchant payments. For small business owners, accessing financial resources has never been easier. By dialing *155# and selecting “Get Loans,” entrepreneurs can secure the funds they need to manage their cash flow effectively, pay suppliers on time, and grow their operations without a heavy reliance on cash transactions. This service not only empowers entrepreneurs but also enhances the overall efficiency of business operations in Uganda.

MTN MoMo’s innovations too play a crucial role in the broader economy. By offering easy access to credit, the platform boosts economic activity, creates jobs, and helps reduce poverty. It fosters a culture of entrepreneurship, enabling small businesses to thrive and contribute to the nation’s economic development. As these businesses grow, they create employment opportunities, stimulate local economies, and enhance the overall standard of living in communities across Uganda.

See also: MTN MoMo launches new campaign to empower SMEs

The success of MTN mobile money is evident in the burgeoning fintech sector in Uganda. For instance, in the recently released interim results for 9 months of 2024 alone, the number of MTN MoMo users surged by  13.2%, reaching an impressive 13.2 million. Transaction volumes also rose significantly, increasing by 25.1% to 3 billion transactions valued at UGX114.5 trillion. These statistics underscore how MTN MoMo is enhancing financial access for millions of Ugandans, enabling them to participate more fully in the economy and improve their quality of life.

MTN believes that everyone should enjoy the benefits of a connected life, with access to financial services being a vital part of that vision. The evolution of MTN MoMo’s credit ecosystem reflects this commitment, empowering individuals and businesses to overcome financial challenges and seize new opportunities. By continually expanding its service offerings and refining its credit solutions, MTN MoMo is ensuring that financial inclusion remains at the forefront of its mission.

In addition to individual empowerment, MTN MoMo is also contributing to the development of a more robust financial infrastructure in Uganda. By integrating various financial services and promoting responsible borrowing practices, MTN MoMo is not just facilitating transactions; it is nurturing a sustainable financial ecosystem. This environment supports innovation and encourages the development of new financial products tailored to meet the needs of diverse consumer segments.

MTN MoMo is therefore more than just a mobile financial service; it is an essential player in Uganda’s economic growth and digital transformation. By facilitating access to crucial financial resources—including savings, credit, overdrafts, utility payments and school fees payments —MTN MoMo stands as a central hub in the financial lives of Ugandans.

It’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and economic prosperity is evident in its various initiatives, empowering individuals and small businesses alike. As Uganda continues to embrace digital innovation, MTN MoMo is poised to remain a cornerstone of the nation’s journey towards financial inclusivity and economic development.

Editor’s Note: The writer of this article Jemima Kariuki-Njuguna is the Chief Product Officer at MTN Mobile Money (U) Limited.

The post OP-ED: MTN MoMo, Bridging the Gap Between Ugandans and Financial Service appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Cyber hygiene involves cultivating habits that keep your digital life healthy and secure. In our highly connected world, you want peace of mind so that you can prevent or quickly detect and fix problems with your devices. Cyber hygiene is crucial for individuals and organizations as it serves as the first line of defense against a wide range of cyber threats, including data breaches, malware, and phishing attacks.

Just like personal hygiene helps prevent illness, good cyber hygiene practices prevent security vulnerabilities from being exploited. For organizations, these habits reduce the risk of operational disruptions, reputational damage, and financial losses because of cyberattacks.

Evolving threats need better defenses

Unfortunately, what worked before is no longer sufficient because of the increasing complexity and sophistication of cyber threats. In the early days of the internet, simple antivirus software and password protection were often enough to prevent cyberattacks. However, the digital landscape is now filled with advanced threats such as ransomware, deepfakes, AI-enhanced phishing, and zero-day exploits – the latter leaving vendors no time to prepare patches as the vulnerabilities are exploited immediately upon discovery.

As more devices connect and remote work spreads, cybercriminals gain more entry points to exploit. This makes it essential for individuals and businesses to adopt more comprehensive, layered security measures, including multi-factor authentication, regular software updates, and monitoring.

What makes strong cyber hygiene

Good cyber hygiene starts with antimalware software and regularly updating your software. Next, you need to use strong, unique passwords. Be deliberate about creating long, unique passwords for each account and use a password manager to store them securely. (Most password managers will generate strong passwords for you.)

Also read:

• • Password-less authentication: the future of secure access
  • The importance of password security in the digital age

Next, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA). Traditional MFA typically requires a password plus a second factor, such as a code sent to your phone via text or generated by an app. However, this method is vulnerable to phishing attacks, where someone tricks you into revealing your code. Phishing-resistant MFA provides stronger protection by employing methods that are difficult to intercept or replicate, such as physical security keys or biometric authentication (fingerprints or facial recognition). With these methods, only you can log in, even if someone gets your password.

See also: From today start using two-factor authentication

Lastly, be cautious about sharing personal information over the phone or online, especially on social media or unfamiliar websites. Combine this with regularly backing up your important files to a secure location, such as an external hard drive or a reputable cloud service, and your digital hygiene will be significantly improved.

What does poor digital hygiene look like? One of the laziest habits I’ve encountered is using the same password across all accounts—often something predictable like a pet’s name plus a birth year. While this might not be critical for news websites, it’s a major risk for important accounts. Your email, social media, work, and financial accounts require unique, strong passwords coupled with multi-factor authentication.

I once heard someone say they didn’t mind if cybercriminals hacked their email account because they “had nothing to hide”. This misses the point entirely. Not only can your email be used to reset passwords for your other accounts, but attackers can also exploit it to spread malware and launch attacks against people in your network who trust you.

What can organizations do?

Organizations can foster good cyber hygiene by building a culture of security awareness through regular training and communication. Key strategies include ongoing security awareness training to help employees recognize threats like phishing and social engineering, establishing clear policies on online behavior and data handling, and leading by example through managers’ adherence to security practices. Regular drills, such as simulated phishing, incentives for compliance, and personalizing the benefits of cybersecurity, will further encourage strong, consistent participation.

Editor’s Note: The writer of this article Anna Collard is a SVP Content Strategy and Evangelist at KnowBe4 AFRICA

The post Your Digital Hygiene: Are You Really as Clean as You Think You Are? appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Many SMEs are increasingly investing in technological solutions to remain competitive and scale their businesses. These include HR management systems, digital payment platforms, automated payroll software, and data collection tools, all aimed at better serving diverse customer needs and streamlining operations.

Despite these advancements, many SMEs are still in the early stages of adopting technology.

Barriers such as high costs, inadequate infrastructure, and limited technical skills hinder SMEs’ ability to leverage the benefits of digital transformation. These challenges slow the widespread adoption of business automation and innovation that when mature as technologies are represented as machine learning and artificial intelligence, thus preventing Ugandan SMEs from reaching their full competitive advantage potential.

Tier 3 data centres like Raxio Data Centre fill a critical gap by providing the foundational infrastructure needed for optimal digital technology performance. This allows industries, particularly SMEs, to focus more on navigating higher-level challenges such as selecting the right IT tools and addressing regulatory issues. By offering cutting-edge infrastructure, Raxio enables businesses to drive innovation and facilitate seamless digital transformation—essential for economic growth and long-term sustainability. This technological backbone supports unrestricted scalability, empowering businesses to grow without the limitations of inadequate infrastructure.

See also: Godfrey Sserwamukoko urges educational and research institutions to harness tier III certified data centres

A key milestone in building a robust digital transformation ecosystem has been Liquid Intelligent Technologies’ deployment of the first local instance of Microsoft Azure Stack in the Raxio Uganda Data Hall. This partnership unlocks new opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by providing affordable access to advanced cloud solutions. In the past, many SMEs found these solutions inaccessible due to high costs or inadequate infrastructure. This development now brings powerful cloud capabilities within reach, enabling SMEs to scale and innovate more effectively.

Also read:

• • OP-ED: Microsoft Azure Stack, a game changer for Ugandan businesses and enterprises
  • Godfrey Sserwamukoko: we’re well equipped to host Microsoft Azure Stack

The integration of Azure Stack into Raxio’s infrastructure eliminates technical constraints such as slow access, poor support, and data residency issues —and also addresses key concerns around cost and deployment complexity—critical factors in today’s digital economy. This empowers Ugandan SMEs to confidently expand their operations while ensuring their data remains secure and compliant. With access to high-performance cloud services, SMEs can optimize their processes, enhance efficiency, and drive innovation like never before. This technological leap also positions them to compete on a global scale, fostering sustainable growth in an increasingly digital world.

Hosting the Microsoft Azure Stack aligns perfectly with Raxio’s vision of driving economic growth and oiling the varied phases of digital transformation in Uganda. Our secure and reliable services allow SMEs to focus on their core activities, knowing that their data and operations are supported by world-class infrastructure.

At Raxio Data Centre, we do more than just provide a service; we actively invest in your business’s strategic innovation journey, working towards the future success of SMEs in Uganda. Technology is no longer simply a tool—it has evolved into an ecosystem that captures, stores, and processes data, ultimately producing insights through machine learning. The result is artificial intelligence, which will be the driving force behind SME growth, innovation, and the overall prosperity of Uganda.

The post OP-ED: Digital Transformation as a Catalyst for Growth in the Ugandan SME Sector appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Compared to various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) that make up the government of Uganda, infographics have become more popular in the private sector both in print and digital landscapes. They are used by Public Relations professionals as a strategic tool for engaging their target audiences. According to Gina Brennan, when creating infographics, it is important to use text sparingly to highlight essential points, avoiding clutter and unnecessary details. They should not contain lengthy paragraphs and should be easily digestible, enabling readers to quickly grasp the key takeaways.

While infographic design requires technical know-how and a high level of creativity, various tools have emerged that assist users in quickly generating visually appealing content simply by drag and drop. A good example is www.canva.com which provides a wide range of templates both for still and motion graphics. It enables one to select and customize a template suitable for the nature of the information. Unlike conventional tools that require sophisticated training to use such as Adobe (Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects among others), these digital tools make work quicker with less effort, minimal training, and basic computer literacy. This is in addition to their ability to produce a variety of options for multimedia content such as videos, animated GIFs, still graphics, and audio-visual graphics.

Other common digital platforms for creating infographics include Visme.co, Venngage, Piktochart, Visualize.me among others.

The Uganda Access to Information Act 2005 establishes the right of individuals to access public information held by public institutions. This is in line with Article 41 of the Ugandan Constitution. It ensures transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance by granting access to government documents and records.

There has been consistent use of plain text documents in the dissemination of official government communication. Only a few instances are noticeable where text is combined with images and or videos, icons, and vectors to transform the intended messages into compelling formats. The world has moved away from such. According to a report by Microsoft as of May 2015, the attention span had reduced to the average of eight seconds for adults.

According to Jakob, research shows that users will read about 20 percent of the text on a single page. Owing to the short attention span in addition to the predominant text format of information shared by most government MDAs in Uganda, very few people can either pick the interest or grasp the content of the message. This leaves a big information gap in the general population and creates room for speculation and misinformation because the intended message is most of the time distorted.

Consequently, the uptake of government programs and services remains low which greatly impacts socio-economic transformation. The adoption of infographic content is therefore inevitable in enhancing government communication to reach a wider audience in the country thereby enhancing awareness of government programmes and services.

It is therefore prudent that the government becomes deliberate in ensuring citizens understand and make good use of public information by investing in creative ways and adopting the latest techniques in the dynamic world we face today.

While infographics can be a game changer in PR and communication, their production is time-consuming and requires a high level of computer literacy and dedicated training. Additionally, they involve shortening of messages to fit the purpose of compelling visuals with less text. This way, important information can easily be lost which might render such infographics useless or half-baked. It therefore takes a keen eye and creativity to produce compelling infographics that are informative at the same time. To counter this for effectiveness and efficiency, the government of Uganda through the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance should enhance the capacity of PR and Communication departments. The solution to this challenge is two-fold:

Partnering with other government agencies specializing in graphic design and content production; Building the capacity of existing Communication and PR officers and amending their KPIs to include graphic designing.

Most communication officers and PR practitioners employed by the government of Uganda are computer literate and therefore require minimal training to adopt basic tools for generating compelling infographics from respective information and content pieces.

A publication in Extension Journal reveals that a rising trend in the use of infographics has emerged in a variety of content areas. Infographics can deliver meaningful messages. In his article published on www.nation.africa, Sam Wambugu argues that the best infographics are clear, easy to digest, and eye-catching. The beauty of infographics is their ability to convey a message, concept, or instruction in a very short amount of time. We are all inclined to process visuals more easily than a piece of text and that is why infographics appeal to so many people.

The Electoral Commission of South Africa is one good example of a government agency in Africa that has leveraged infographics to educate the masses. The content on their X page at a glance is eye-catching, informative, and legible enough that one would easily be forced to pay enough attention to it. Because of this, most of their content shared on their X channel has attracted high engagement rates. This is an indication that infographic content attracts more engagement and should therefore be adopted by the Government of Uganda to engage more of its citizens.

Most businesses in the private sector have learned the power of telling a story using infographics, the visual representation of data. One may wonder: how effective are infographics as a tool for enhancing government communication?

The persistent use of infographics will increase the exposure of such content which will in turn shift the perceptions of citizens on government programmes and services thereby increasing their uptake. For example, one could use an animated video on how to renew their driver’s license or the steps of getting government funding through the Parish Development Model.

Communication and PR experts in government MDAs can use infographics to create compelling messages to nudge citizens in beneficial directions without restricting their freedom. Presenting information better and more clearly helps the public to make desirable decisions from an informed point of view.

According to Thaler and Sunstein, by understanding human behavior and decision-making patterns, we can create environments that facilitate better choices for individuals, nudging people toward decisions that benefit themselves and their communities. In April 2024, city traders in Kampala, Uganda closed shops in their protest against tax regulations under the Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing Solution (EFRIS). Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) used infographics in its PR strategy to simplify the complex information about the system and was able to nudge traders into understanding and adopting the system which previously had been perceived to be forced on them.

The government of Uganda can prioritize and emphasize key messages —keeping in mind that publics pay more attention to less text and more visuals. Their consistent use of infographics also enhances their brand visibility over time. This creates a distinction between the information they send out and any other information that might be created by propagandists and unscrupulous characters that aim to spread disinformation. This is noticeable in the way Agora Discourse uses infographics to emphasize its messaging and gain popularity. Agora Discourse is a Digital Public Square Promoting Human rights, Public Accountability, and Social justice. It has been consistent in calling out politicians and public officers allegedly involved in corruption and embezzlement scandals, a discussion that has attracted different Ugandans from all corners to unite against the vice.

Brands that use infographic messages can nudge and therefore engage a wider audience. Consequently, their audience grows faster compared to those who do not use infographics. This can greatly influence perceptions because the publics are constantly informed.

Infographics are influential in shaping narratives. They are best suited to frame slogans, jargon, and catchphrases which help to make targeted messages more memorable and relatable. They have emerged as a powerful tool for effective communication, leveraging visual storytelling to convey complex information in concise and engaging formats.

While the private sector has embraced infographics, the government of Uganda has not done enough to harness their potential. By adopting infographics, MDAs can enhance citizen engagement, increase awareness of programs and services, and promote transparency and accountability.

The post OP-ED: Enhancing Government Communication Using Infographics to Reach a Wider Audience appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

1. Visionary government and strong support for digital growth

Rwanda’s leadership has a clear, ambitious vision for the country’s future, placing digital transformation at the core of its economic development. This commitment is encapsulated in the Vision 2050 plan, which highlights technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship as key drivers of national progress.

The Rwandan government has actively created a pro-business environment that is recognized as one of the best in Africa, providing a solid platform for foreign investment, especially in high-tech industries like AI. What’s more, the government offers a range of incentives for tech-focused projects, including tax breaks, streamlined registration processes, and supportive regulatory frameworks. These policies don’t just make Rwanda attractive they make it a partner for investors looking to succeed in tech ventures.

2. Kigali Innovation City: A growing tech hub

The Kigali Innovation City (KIC) stands at the heart of Rwanda’s tech aspirations. Designed to attract top tech companies, research institutions, and startups, KIC offers world-class infrastructure and comprehensive support for businesses. It is already home to Carnegie Mellon University Africa and other institutions focusing on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), creating a rich environment for nurturing local talent essential for AI projects.

The AI Center of Excellence would seamlessly integrate into this growing ecosystem of innovation, providing access to cutting-edge research, industry experts, and a dynamic startup culture. Rwanda’s global outlook, combined with its strong focus on building international partnerships, opens the door for collaborations with AI leaders worldwide.

3. Strategic location and regional influence

Rwanda’s strategic location in East Africa positions Kigali perfectly to serve not just local markets, but the entire region. Known for its political stability and forward-thinking policies, Rwanda provides a secure and predictable environment for long-term investments. The proposed AI Center of Excellence could become a regional hub, attracting top-tier talent and businesses from across Africa, while also serving neighboring markets hungry for AI solutions.

4. Advanced digital and energy infrastructure

For any AI center, reliable energy and high-speed internet are non-negotiable. Rwanda has been aggressive in expanding its digital infrastructure, with nationwide fiber-optic networks and strong 4G LTE coverage already in place. Plans for rolling out 5G are underway, reinforcing Rwanda’s readiness for AI-driven projects.

In terms of energy, Rwanda is steadily increasing its capacity, which currently stands at around 300-350 MW. Efforts to expand renewable energy sources like hydropower and methane gas show Rwanda’s commitment to building a sustainable and eco-friendly energy grid. With global trends favoring green data centers, Rwanda’s push towards clean energy makes it an attractive choice for hosting state-of-the-art AI facilities.

5. Expanding tech talent pool

Rwanda’s growing tech talent is another major advantage. Institutions like Carnegie Mellon University Africa are playing a pivotal role in training the next generation of engineers, developers, and AI specialists. The country’s investment in STEM education and partnerships with international tech firms are creating a robust pipeline of talent ready to support AI innovations. However, additional investment in AI-specific training programs and workforce development will be key to fully leveraging this talent. The proposed AI Center could serve as both an innovation hub and a training ground, offering advanced programs that could help create thousands of high-skilled jobs for Rwandans.

6. Rwanda-Singapore AI Playbook: A strategic framework for AI growth

Rwanda’s collaboration with Singapore to create an AI Playbook adds even more credibility to its AI ambitions. This strategic roadmap outlines how artificial intelligence can be deployed to solve critical issues in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and fintech. Establishing an AI Center of Excellence in Kigali, Rwanda could become a regional leader in AI, offering practical solutions to African-specific challenges such as precision farming and healthcare diagnostics.

Also read:

• • OP-ED: Scared of AI? It won’t replace humans
  • OP-ED: Artificial Intelligence the key to greater financial inclusion
  • Africa is embracing the artificial intelligence innovation wave, says experts

Challenges to consider

Rwanda is clearly a strong contender, but there are a few challenges to address. The country’s energy grid, while expanding, will need to be scaled up to meet the 24/7 operational demands of a large-scale AI facility. Additionally, cooling systems for data centers in Rwanda’s tropical climate will require innovative solutions such as renewable-powered cooling. Building AI-specific expertise within the workforce will also be essential. But these challenges represent opportunities for Rwanda to collaborate with global partners and leverage cutting-edge technologies to overcome these hurdles.

Who needs Silicon Valley when you have Kigali?

Rwanda is moving rapidly to cement its place as a tech hub not just in Africa, but globally. Its visionary government, expanding digital and energy infrastructure, and growing tech talent make Rwanda an ideal location for a USD$100 million (approx. RWF135 billion, UGX368.8 billion) AI Center of Excellence.

The country’s strategic location, political stability, and strong commitment to sustainability present a rare opportunity for investors to be part of Africa’s digital revolution. While there are challenges to address, Rwanda’s unwavering determination to lead in artificial intelligence and technological growth makes it a compelling and strategic choice for any transformative project in the region.

For investors, this is more than just a business opportunity, this is a chance to shape the future of AI in Africa, with Kigali at the forefront of innovation.

See also: David Mugonyi: Communications Authority of Kenya to spur innovation and uptake of new tech

Editor’s Note: This article was written and provided to PC Tech Magazine by Barnabas Ngoga

The post OP-ED: Why Rwanda is the Smart $100M Bet for Africa’s AI Center of Excellence appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Let’s explore some use cases …

1. Climate Modelling

One of the more compelling applications of AI is in climate modeling. Traditional climate models are robust, but normally incongruous with the processing of vast reams of data needed to predict future patterns of climate. AI analyzes such large data sets at speeds previously unattainable, therefore underpinning the accuracy of climate forecasts and allowing scientific understanding of complex changes that are happening in the environment. It is this enhanced capability in modeling that will be important in formulating strategies to mitigate climate change impacts.

2. AI for Renewables

AI also has a huge role in the initiation of renewable energy solutions. By optimizing production and distribution for sources like solar and wind power, AI can increase efficiency. AI-managed smart grids would be better positioned to balance demand and supply of energy more effectively, hence integrating renewables in the energy mix and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. AI is also currently used for its predictability variable in solar energy and wind farming for Germany and Denmark respectively as well as revolutionizing the operation of smart grids in California and carbon capture in Canada. This lowers greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and paves the way for a sustainable energy future.

3. Manufacturing and Transportation Sectors

Manufacturing is one of these large emitters worldwide, in which huge differences can be made by AI-powered efficiencies through the optimization of production processes and waste reduction, as well as energy use processes that will hugely reduce GHG emissions. Another major way AI spearheads the big urban GHG slice to cleaner air is through AI-regulated public transport, electric and autonomous automobiles, and intelligent traffic management. This helps the entities to comply with the National Climate Change Act Cap. 182, the National Environment Act Cap. 181, and other relevant legislations.

However, as we embrace AI’s potential, we must also address associated ethical challenges.

4. Environmental Monitoring

AI is going to change the way we think about environmental monitoring and conservation. From satellite images showing deforestation and melting of the glaciers, AI has huge potential to provide critical insights into setting up conservation strategies in the areas of biodiversity and wildlife habitats. AI-driven pollution control technologies can detect and mitigate pollution in real time, hence contributing to a healthier ecosystem and community. But with this ability comes great associated ethical challenges we must address.

What needs to happen

Bias-free AI applications in society, therefore, hold paramount significance. Individual privacy in environmental monitoring applications has to be critically observed to retain civic trust and support for AI initiatives. That is to say, we, Uganda and Africa, still need appropriate policies and regulatory frameworks since they are the enabling frameworks for developing, deploying, and using AI responsibly in solving climate change. We can also turn to the 2024-27 work plan of the UNFCC’s #AI4ClimateAction Initiative to guide us on some aspects.

What the future looks like …

Looking ahead, AI is going to underpin our response and resilience to climate change. Across borders, AI will continue to enhance data sharing and predictive modeling that calls for a unanimous global response in the fight against climate change. The collaboration between policymakers, scientists, and industry leaders to fully tap into the potentials of AI is expected to grow in a bid that AI serves for good.

In other words, AI and climate action are companions offering much-needed hope within this otherwise daunting landscape. We shall go further to the extent of harnessing AI capability in making headway on understanding, mitigating, and adapting to climate change. This should serve as a call to action for all actors to embrace this technology and work together toward a sustainable future.

See also: OPED: How technology can mitigate climate change

The post OP-ED: Harnessing Artificial Intelligence For Climate Action appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.