The summit which builds on the success of the 2023 Technology Information Confederation (TICON) Africa conference which highlighted Uganda’s potential in digital transformation and technological innovation —will press the need to solidify this position and address ongoing challenges in the ICT sector.

The two-day (ends tomorrow, Oct. 24th) summit which is being held under the theme “Economic Competitiveness through Strategic and Sustainable Digital Transformation” is serving as a neutral, collaborative platform for government officials, policymakers, innovators, and digital experts to explore how digital technologies can drive economic growth and the country’s economic development.

In his keynote, Hon. Kabbyanga said, “I commended ICTAU for its tireless efforts in advancing Uganda’s digital landscape and promoting impactful change in the ICT sector. Through the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, the government remains committed to creating an enabling environment that supports digital innovation, promotes digital inclusion, and ensures cybersecurity.”

He added, “I’m excited to see Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) here today. Your presence and input are vital to ensuring that the digital transformation agenda is inclusive and that policies around digital literacy, cybersecurity, and infrastructure development are implemented across all sectors.”

In her brief remarks, ICTAU’s Board Chairperson Ms. Elizabeth Ntege said Uganda’s ICT sector is on a path to generating more direct employment opportunities, enhancing livelihoods, and contributing significantly to the country’s GDP growth. “We are at a decisive stage in Uganda’s digital journey, where the role of ICT is no longer just an option but a critical driver of national competitiveness and social impact,” she said. “This summit is not only about discussing the future of technology but taking tangible steps to ensure Uganda leads in digital transformation across all sectors.”

Takeaways from the first days of the summit;

In a panel discussion on “Building and Interconnecting Africa’s Digital Backbone for Enhancing Economic Competitiveness through Scalable Infrastructure,” experts discussed the importance of building scalable digital infrastructure across Africa, spotlighting Uganda’s remarkable progress in data centers and fiber connectivity as critical building blocks.

Byaruhanga James, the Executive Director of Roke Telkom Uganda noted that on top of the data centers, fiber connectivity, and users, Uganda now needs cloud infrastructure. “As data stays within Uganda’s data centers, whether public or private, cloud solutions are critical to maximize this,” he said. “With announcements like the Azure Stack, we’re starting to see investment interest, but we could use even more global and public financing.”

On internet connectivity, Kyle Spencer, Executive Director of Uganda Internet Exchange Point (UIXP) revealed that the percentage of sub-Saharan Africa’s internet capacity linked to Europe since 2015 has dropped from 75% to around 60%, showing our success in originating traffic locally. He added, “Wholesale IP transit prices in Kampala are down to USD$2.50 (approx. UGX9,200) per megabit, a 30-33% drop in recent years. Our infrastructure and pricing are competitive with other regions in Africa.”

Patrick Okoth, Project Manager of Government Networks at NITA Uganda commended the Ministry of ICT and Nationa Guidance for facilitating policies and the new licensing framework, which has expanded infrastructure reach.

Local infrastructure is key,” said Badru Ntege, Director of NFT Consult.

The panelists while highlighting the need for cloud solutions to strengthen the country’s digital backbone, argued that these solutions are essential but underscored the need for more global and public financing to push for deeper, long-term investments that will facilitate growth and make technology more accessible.

The summit also revealed that Uganda’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector has seen impressive growth, with the industry expanding at a rate of 14.8% annually. Employing over 2 million people, it stands as the country’s second-largest sector, trailing behind agriculture. Despite these successes, there is a widespread belief that the country has not yet fully tapped into its potential, particularly in scaling local content creation and expanding the infrastructure necessary to connect Uganda’s 48 million citizens.

“We need to create local content, ensure it circulates within our ecosystem, and connect all 48 million Ugandans before we focus on regional connectivity,” said Ntege.

The country’s progress in this area is encouraging, but there is still significant room for growth, especially in rural and underserved communities.

In his remarks, H.E. Upender Singh Rawat, High Commissioner of India to Uganda while drawing comparisons to India’s booming ICT sector which is expected to reach USD$500 billion in revenue by 2030, said “Indian firms like PSL Uganda and Tata Consultancy Services are key partners in Uganda’s digital transformation, introducing advanced technologies and best practices to strengthen the country’s ICT infrastructure and innovation.”

H.E. Upender emphasized the importance of developing local laws tailored to support digital competitiveness and innovation. By creating a legal framework that addresses the needs of the creative and tech industries, Uganda can foster a more robust digital economy.

There was a strong consensus that the digital economy is a major catalyst for socio-economic growth. However, more efforts are needed to ensure inclusivity. Uganda must focus on blending digital infrastructure with tools and skills, particularly in underserved communities, to bring opportunities closer to the people. The pathway to digital transformation lies in connecting these communities, equipping them with the necessary digital resources, and creating policies that drive private investment. Through these actions, Uganda can unlock its untapped potential and lead the region in digital innovation.

In a panel session, “Financing and Investment Strategies for Building Africa’s Scalable Digital Infrastructure,” the panelists discussed the importance of leveraging regional and international partnerships to bridge the continent’s digital divide. Africa’s growing population and increasing digital penetration demand robust infrastructure, but funding gaps remain a significant challenge. They underscored the need for innovative financing models that consider the unique challenges and opportunities in African markets, including the need for scalable solutions that adapt to varying regional demands.

Ajay Ramasubramaniam, CEO of StartupReseau and Co-founder of Hindsight Ventures, said “Innovative financing often focuses on customer-facing elements, but the core principles in finance remain unchanged.” He added, “When it comes to infrastructure, whether hard or digital, we need to consider all revenue opportunities, from toll roads to digital platforms that leverage data for long-term gains.”

Adding to Ajay’s remarks, Paul Mugwanya, Executive Head of corporate and Investment Banking at Stanbic Bank Uganda said innovation in finance remains stubbornly slow.

“The core principles of risk allocation have barely changed in over a century, but we’re seeing shifts in how risk is distributed,” notes Mugwanya. “Governments are now working to shift some risks like political and post-crisis risks to the private sector. This is essential for encouraging investment in large-scale infrastructure projects, where the private sector often hesitates to take on the full burden.”

Delegates experienced hands-on demonstrations of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, digital healthcare, fintech, etc.

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Scheduled to be held from October 23-24 under the theme “Economic Competitiveness through Strategic and Sustainable Digital Transformation”, the summit will serve as a neutral, collaborative platform for government officials, policymakers, innovators, and digital experts to explore how digital technologies can drive economic growth and national development.

At a press briefing at the Uganda Media Centre, Hon. Kabbyanga called upon the general public, and Ministries, Departments, & Agencies (MDAs) to actively participate in the summit. “Your presence and input are vital to ensuring that the digital transformation agenda is inclusive and that policies around digital literacy, cybersecurity, and infrastructure development are implemented across all sectors,” he said. “We urge you to bring your expertise and collaborate in shaping the future of Uganda’s digital landscape.”

Applauding the Information Communication Technology Authority Uganda (ICTAU) for playing an instrumental role in driving innovation, policy advocacy, and digital transformation across the country, Hon. Kabbyanga noted that the inaugural ICT National Summit is aligned with the goals outlined in the Digital Transformation Roadmap for Uganda (2023-2027) and the East African Community Regional Digital Strategy (2024-2030).”

See also: Gideon Nkurunungi: The ICT National Summit will leverage the digital transformation roadmap

This summit holds particular significance as it marks the 10th anniversary of the ICTAU.

“What began in 2014 as a platform for uniting ICT professionals and organizations has grown into a pivotal force,” said Hon. Kabbyanga. “We are proud of what has been accomplished over the past 10 years, and the ICT National Summit is a reflection of the continued commitment of ICTAU to advancing the ICT agenda in Uganda and beyond.”

The ICT National Summit organized by ICTAU in collaboration with the Ministry of ICT & National Guidance, the National Information Technology Authority Uganda (NITA-U), the Uganda Investment Authority, and industry stakeholders will convene decision-makers, industry leaders, and technology enthusiasts committed to advancing Uganda’s ICT sector.

ICTAU Chairman, Gideon Nkurunungi in his remarks said, “We are not having an event that is only for speeches, the ICT National Summit will feature a lot of solution clinics where people will come and have hands-on experience on emerging technologies.” He added, “We are inviting everyone from all sectors, agriculture, telecommunications, healthcare, education, oil & gas, energy, etc —who are eager to see what technology can do.”

The key emerging technologies that will be highlighted at the summit, showcasing their potential impact on various sectors include artificial intelligence & machine learning, the Internet of Things, health tech, smart agriculture, blockchain technology, fintech, cybersecurity, cloud computing, etc.

Key discussions including Uganda’s roadmap to digital transformation and digital strategies for social impact address the importance of robust digital infrastructure, cloud computing, and cybersecurity in supporting this transformation. By bringing together industry leaders and decision-makers, the summit aims to create actionable insights and partnerships that drive Uganda’s digital agenda.

To be part of this inaugural ICT Summit, visit the summit website to register.

The post Kabbyanga Godfrey Baluku: I Call the Public and all MDAs to Participate in the Inaugural ICT National Summit appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

With the launch of the digital transformation roadmap in August last year, Uganda stands at a crossroads, where the decisions made today will shape the nation’s digital future —putting into consideration the five (5) pillars the roadmap stands on; Infrastructure & Connectivity, Digital Skilling, e-Services, Cybersecurity & Privacy, and Innovation & Entrepreneurship.

A decade of progress

In 2014, Uganda’s ICT landscape was characterized by limited internet penetration, a nascent e-government framework, and a lack of comprehensive digital policies. The government recognized the need for a structured approach to harness the potential of technology for economic growth and social development. This is likely one of the foundational reasons for establishing the ICTAU, which aimed to unify stakeholders in the ICT sector and advocate for policies that foster innovation and digital transformation.

Over the years, Uganda has made significant strides in various areas. Internet penetration has increased from around 23% in 2014 to an estimated 60% in 2024, thanks to the expansion of mobile networks and investments in infrastructure. The government has also made efforts to enhance e-government services, with the number of online services growing from 50 to over 200.

These developments indicate a commitment to leveraging technology for improved service delivery and transparency.

The digital transformation roadmap

The digital transformation roadmap (2023/24 to 2027/28) launched by Vice President, H.E. Jessica Alupo in August 2023 marks a pivotal moment in Uganda’s ICT journey. Now that it is already a year in, this comprehensive strategy aims to accelerate the country’s digital revolution by addressing key enablers such as digital infrastructure, connectivity, and cybersecurity.

See also: ITU Secretary-General, Doreen Bogdan-Martin applauds Uganda’s digital transformation roadmap

The roadmap outlines ambitious goals, including achieving 90% household connectivity and ensuring that 90% of citizens can access e-services online by 2040. However, while the roadmap sets a clear direction, it highlights the remaining challenges. Despite the progress made, Uganda still grapples with issues such as high internet costs, inadequate digital skills among the workforce, and the need for a more integrated approach to e-services.

The roadmap acknowledges these gaps and emphasizes the importance of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship to drive economic growth.

The role of ICTAU in shaping the future

As a key player in Uganda’s ICT ecosystem, ICTAU has a vital role in successfully implementing the digital transformation roadmap. The association has actively advocated for policies that support digital innovation and has facilitated various initiatives aimed at enhancing digital literacy and skills development.

The recent performance assessment conducted by ICTAU, in collaboration with the International Trade Centre (ITC), underscores the association’s commitment to self-improvement and responsiveness to the needs of its members. This proactive approach is essential for ensuring that ICTAU remains relevant and effective in addressing the evolving challenges of the ICT sector.

Expectations for the next decade

We’ll come back here in 2034 to weigh the gains and losses. However, for the roadmap to succeed, there must be increased collaboration between the government, the private sector, and civil society. Stakeholders need to work together to create an enabling environment that fosters innovation and addresses the barriers to digital access.

The future of Uganda’s ICT landscape hinges on the development of a digitally skilled workforce. ICTAU must continue championing initiatives promoting digital literacy and vocational training, ensuring that citizens are equipped to participate in the digital economy.

We also need to acknowledge that continued investment in ICT infrastructure is crucial. The government must prioritize expanding broadband access, especially in rural areas, to bridge the digital divide and ensure that all Ugandans can benefit from digital services. And as Uganda becomes more digitally connected, the importance of robust cybersecurity measures cannot be overstated. The roadmap must include strategies to enhance cybersecurity awareness and protect citizens’ data and privacy.

Finally, a robust monitoring and evaluation framework is essential to track the progress of the digital transformation roadmap. ICTAU should play a key role in this process, providing feedback and recommendations to ensure that the roadmap remains responsive to the needs of the population.

As ICTAU celebrates its 10th anniversary, it is clear that Uganda’s ICT roadmap has made significant progress over the past decade. However, the challenges that lie ahead require a renewed commitment to collaboration, innovation, and investment. The digital transformation roadmap provides a solid foundation for the next decade, but its success will depend on the collective efforts of all stakeholders in the ICT ecosystem.

See also: Gideon Nkurunungi: The ICT National Summit to leverage the digital transformation roadmap

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The Summit is organized under the theme “Economic Competitiveness through strategic and sustainable digital transformation” and is co-hosted by the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance.

One of the summit tracks, set up to boost organizational leadership, is “Embedding security into IT infrastructure to mitigate risks and maintain agility” which is essential especially in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape. As organizations face increasing threats, the need to integrate security measures into the core of IT systems has never been more critical and a priority.

We briefly explore how organizations can effectively embed security into their IT infrastructure to protect their assets and enable agile operations.

The importance of security in IT infrastructure

In an era where data breaches and cyberattacks are commonplace, security must be a foundational element of IT infrastructure. A well-structured IT infrastructure management strategy ensures that all components, from servers to applications, operate smoothly and securely. This includes implementing robust security measures that protect sensitive data and maintain the integrity of systems.

The organization’s agility is often directly tied to its ability to respond to market changes and technological advancements. However, this agility can be compromised by inadequate security practices. Organizations prioritizing security are better positioned to adapt quickly without exposing themselves to unnecessary risks.

The best practices for embedding security

1. Proactive Security Measures

Organizations should adopt a proactive approach to security rather than a reactive one. This includes regular security audits, vulnerability assessments, and the implementation of advanced threat detection systems. By continuously monitoring the IT environment, organizations can identify and address potential threats before they escalate into significant issues.

2. Integration of Security into Development Processes

Embedding security into the software development lifecycle (SDLC) is crucial. This can be achieved through methodologies like DevSecOps, which integrates security practices into agile development processes. By involving security teams early in the development cycle, organizations can ensure that security requirements are met from the outset, reducing the likelihood of vulnerabilities in production environments.

3. Utilization of Cloud Security Solutions

As organizations increasingly rely on cloud services, securing these environments becomes paramount. Implementing cloud security measures, such as identity and access management (IAM), encryption, and continuous monitoring, can help protect sensitive data stored in the cloud. Organizations should also ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards, which can be achieved through comprehensive governance frameworks.

4. Employee Training and Awareness

Human error is often a significant factor in security breaches. Therefore, organizations must invest in training programs that educate employees about security best practices and the importance of maintaining a secure environment. Regular workshops and simulations can help reinforce these concepts and promote a culture of security awareness throughout the organization.

5. Developing a Comprehensive Incident Response Plan

Despite best efforts, security incidents may still occur. Organizations must have a well-defined incident response plan that outlines the steps to take in the event of a security breach. This plan should include roles and responsibilities, communication protocols, and recovery procedures to ensure a swift and effective response. Regularly testing and updating the incident response plan is essential to adapt to evolving threats and business needs.

The role of leadership in security integration

Leadership plays a crucial role in embedding security into IT infrastructure. Executives must prioritize security as a key business objective and allocate necessary resources to implement and maintain security measures. This includes fostering collaboration between IT, security, and business teams to ensure that security is not viewed as a hindrance but as an enabler of innovation and agility.

To learn more on how to embed security into IT infrastructure, ICTAU and its partners urge organizations and individuals to register and be part of the ICT National Summit, happening 9th-10th September 2024 at the Kampala Serena Hotel.

See also: 9 emerging technologies that will be highlighted at the Inaugural National ICT Summit

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Speaking to PC Tech Magazine, Refactory Academy’s Founder and Program Director, Mr. Michael Niyitegeka said, “The ICT Summit is a good forum that comes in time for us to deeply reflect on the ICT generally as a space and eco-system enabler.” He added, “This is an opportunity to deeply reflect on how entities position ICT as a driver for national economic development.”

Refactory Academy, with its industry-led skilling model, is at the forefront of transforming Uganda’s tech industry. It is uniquely positioned to lead the charge toward a future where Uganda’s tech talent thrives and drives the digital economy forward. “As Refactory Academy one of the things we are doing is empowering people, giving them a skill through which we can get the kind of core infrastructure that is required from the human capital,” said Niyitegeka.

PSFU is an apex body that supports the growth of the private sector through effective policy advocacy. Accepting to partner with ICTAU to organize the inaugural summit is a score for the Association considering that the private sector will convene at the summit.

Other partners of the summit include Nation Media Group, The Innovation Village, the National Information Technology Authority (NITA) Uganda, Financial Sector Deepening (FSD) Uganda, and PC Tech Magazine.

The summit which will be held at the Kampala Serena Hotel from 9-10, September will facilitate thought leadership, and policy influence —and showcase groundbreaking projects that attract investment and drive digital transformation. These interactive components will ensure participants gain valuable insights and build meaningful connections, making the summit a must-attend event for anyone invested in the future of technology in Uganda and beyond.

To be part of the National ICT Summit you can register on summit.ictau.ug.

See also: ICTAU to hold APT awareness cybersecurity training ahead of the ICT National Summit

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The Association’s CEO, Mr. Gideon Nkurunungi, says the summit’s main objective is to garner a shared understanding among industry leaders of the potential barriers and mutual benefits that can be realized through collaboration on digital transformation. He further emphasizes that “Attendees will be matched for pre-scheduled VIP meetings, round table discussions, and private sessions with high-profile attendees who are deeply engaged in solution discovery.”

Nkurunungi also told PC Tech Magazine the inaugural summit will highlight among others, business matching, solution clinics, and high-level discussions on the country’s digital transformation roadmap (2023-2027) and the East Africa Community Regional Digital Strategy (2024-2030), among others.

See also: ITU Secretary-General, Doreen Bogdan-Martin applauds Uganda’s digital transformation roadmap

The ICT National Summit is a premier event that will convene decision-makers, industry leaders, and technology enthusiasts committed to advancing Uganda’s ICT sector. Among the sectors that will participate/attend the summit include but are not limited to financial services, government/public sector, manufacturing, health care, telecommunications, education, media, energy, and retail.

It will be held from 9th to 10th, September at the Kampala Serena Hotel and attendees are expected to pay a delegate’s fee categorized for students at USD$50, Ugandans/non-students USD$200, East African participants USD$250, and international participants USD$300.

All delegates are to register through the ICTAU website on summit.ictau.ug.

See also: 9 emerging technologies that will be highlighted/discussed at the Inaugural ICT National Summit

The post Gideon Nkurunungi: The ICT National Summit to Leverage the Digital Transformation Roadmap appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Under the theme “Economic Competitiveness through Strategic and Sustainable Digital Transformation,” the inaugural summit will be held at the Kampala Serena Hotel from 9-10, September and the key discussions will focus on digital transformation strategies, cybersecurity best practices, human capital development, supportive policy frameworks, and building robust digital infrastructure, to mention a few.

Ahead of the summit, ICTAU, a pivotal non-profit, member-based organization dedicated to advancing Uganda’s ICT sector, will hold an APT (Advanced Persistent Threat) Awareness Cybersecurity Training on August 14, 2024. During the training, participants will among other things learn about APT including understanding APTs, recognizing the APT lifecycle, detecting & mitigating APTs, implementing preventative measures, and learning APT case studies.

Cybersecurity awareness and training have always been on the government’s radar. Led by the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance and other industrial partners, they have been carrying out awareness and training programs designed to educate the general public including organizations on cyber risks like phishing, malware, and ransomware teaching them how to identify and deal with such threats effectively.

Cyber security continues to be a challenge in Uganda and the share of cyber-related crimes to total economic crimes is on the rise. Therefore, the government has in place a robust and solid cyber security approach that establishes measures to ensure the security of the digitalization process and help protect the country and its citizens in cyberspace.

The APT (Advanced Persistent Threat) Awareness Cybersecurity Training will be held at the Information Access Centre at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance. (REGISTER)

See also: 9 emerging technologies that will be highlighted at the Inaugural National ICT Summit

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This summit, organized by the ICT Association of Uganda (ICTAU) in collaboration with the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance (MoICT), National Information Technology Authority (NITA-U), Uganda Investment Authority (UIA), and industry stakeholders, aims to foster collaboration, innovation, and strategic partnerships among various attendees, all of whom play critical roles in advancing Uganda’s digital transformation agenda.

ICTAU and its partners are calling;

Government officials

Policymakers and regulatory authorities are essential attendees as they shape the digital landscape through legislation and policy frameworks. Their involvement is crucial for ensuring that the ICT strategies align with national development goals. By participating, they can gather insights into the latest technological trends and challenges, which can inform future regulations and initiatives.

Industry leaders

CEOs, CIOs, and directors from diverse sectors such as oil and gas, health, telecommunications, and banking are encouraged to attend. These leaders are in a prime position to leverage technology for competitive advantage. The summit will provide them with a platform to share best practices, explore innovative solutions, and network with peers to foster partnerships that can enhance operational efficiency and service delivery.

Cloud leaders

Experts in cloud computing will find the summit particularly beneficial as it focuses on advanced cloud strategies and solutions. With the increasing reliance on cloud technologies, these professionals can exchange knowledge on cloud adoption, security, and management, which are vital for organizations looking to enhance their digital capabilities.

Infrastructure leaders

Decision-makers overseeing infrastructure management are critical to the summit’s discussions. Their role in modernizing and enhancing technological infrastructure is paramount, especially as Uganda aims to improve its digital connectivity and service delivery. By attending, they can learn about the latest infrastructure trends and technologies that can streamline operations and reduce costs.

IT security leaders

In an era where cyber threats are rampant, IT security leaders must prioritize robust security measures within their organizations. The summit will address critical security challenges and offer insights into integrating security into digital ecosystems, making it a must-attend for those responsible for safeguarding their organizations’ digital assets.

Technical professionals

Technical professionals who work on the ICT’s technical aspects will benefit from the summit’s focus on the latest advancements and practical solutions. This group is essential for implementing the strategies discussed at the summit, and their participation will ensure they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to drive digital transformation within their organizations.

Sourcing, Procurement, and Vendor Management Leaders (SPVM)

Leaders in sourcing, procurement, and vendor management will find value in discussions focused on optimizing procurement processes through innovative technologies. The summit will provide insights into best practices for managing vendor relationships and leveraging technology to enhance procurement efficiency.

Additional attendees

The summit will also attract development partners and humanitarian organizations dedicated to leveraging technology for social impact. Their participation will contribute to discussions on how ICT can improve operational efficiency in humanitarian efforts.

Moreover, angel investors and venture capitalists looking to identify and support promising tech startups will find the summit a fertile ground for discovering innovative ideas and potential investment opportunities.

In summary, the inaugural ICT National Summit of Uganda is poised to be an essential gathering for anyone involved in or interested in the advancement of ICT in the country. From government officials to industry leaders, technical professionals to investors, the summit will provide a unique platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and collaboration. Attendees will gain actionable insights and forge strategic alliances that can drive Uganda’s digital transformation forward, making it an event not to be missed.

To be part of this inaugural ICT Summit, visit the summit website to register.

The post Who Needs to Attend the Inaugural ICT National Summit appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Happening from 9-10, September 2024, under the theme “Economic Competitiveness through Strategic and Sustainable Digital Transformation,” the summit aims to foster collaboration among stakeholders, promote digital transformation, and enhance Uganda’s economic competitiveness through strategic use of technology. To be part of this inaugural ICT Summit, visit the summit website to register.

In attendance will be stakeholders of the Uganda ICT industry, including government officials, cloud leaders, infrastructure leaders, IT security leaders, industry leaders, Development partners & Humanitarian organizations, Technical professionals, SPVM leaders, Angel investors, Venture Capitalists, and technology enthusiasts among others.

9 key emerging technologies that will be highlighted at the summit, showcasing their potential impact on various sectors.

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)

At the summit, discussions will revolve around how AI and ML technologies can enhance operational efficiency and drive innovation across sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and finance. With Uganda’s growing tech ecosystem, the integration of AI could lead to improved service delivery and economic growth.

2. HealthTech

The summit will feature case studies demonstrating successful implementations of AI in local healthcare settings, showcasing its potential to address challenges such as resource allocation and disease management.

3. Internet of Things (IoT)

IoT is another critical area of focus at the summit. The summit will explore how IoT can be harnessed to improve infrastructure, enhance public services, and promote sustainable practices.

4. Smart Agriculture

In agriculture, IoT technologies can facilitate precision farming, allowing farmers to monitor soil conditions, crop health, and weather patterns in real time. This data-driven approach can lead to increased yields and reduced waste. Participants at the summit will learn about innovative IoT solutions successfully implemented in Uganda, providing insights into how these technologies can transform the agricultural landscape.

5. Blockchain Technology

In Uganda, blockchain technology is being explored to address challenges in sectors like telecommunications, finance, and government services, and it is poised to disrupt these sectors by providing secure, transparent, and decentralized solutions. The summit will highlight its applications in areas such as supply chain management and governance. By ensuring data integrity and enhancing trust among stakeholders, blockchain can drive efficiency and accountability.

See also: Why blockchain security depends on current tech innovations

6. Fintech

Uganda’s financial services sector is diverse, encompassing banking, insurance, microfinance, and capital markets. The banking sector features both local and international banks, while insurance has seen growth with 23 licensed companies. The rise of fintech and digital finance promotes financial inclusion through innovative solutions.

In this context, blockchain can facilitate secure transactions, reduce fraud, and improve access to financial services. The summit will feature discussions on how blockchain can empower unbanked populations in Uganda, providing them with access to digital financial services and fostering economic inclusion.

7. Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is a critical focus area at the summit in Uganda —notably, ICTAU has held a training prior to the summit to educate participants on cybersecurity awareness and thus, having this further discussed at the summit is key. The country has developed a National Cybersecurity Strategy to address evolving cyber threats and protect its growing digital infrastructure. The summit will feature discussions on the latest cybersecurity trends, best practices, and strategies to mitigate risks.

Experts will share insights on building resilience against cyber attacks and fostering a culture of security awareness.

See also: OP-ED: Getting a hold of cybersecurity

8. Cloud computing

Cloud computing is a pivotal topic at the Inaugural ICT National Summit, highlighting its transformative potential for businesses and public services.

As organizations increasingly adopt cloud solutions, the summit will showcase how cloud computing can modernize IT infrastructures, reduce operational costs, and enhance productivity. Key discussions will focus on leveraging cloud technologies to improve service delivery, foster innovation, and support economic growth.

9. Enabling digital transformation

Enabling digital transformation is one of the main key focuses of the summit, aimed at fostering innovation and enhancing service delivery across sectors. The summit will showcase strategies and technologies that facilitate the transition to digital platforms, empowering organizations to improve efficiency and reach underserved populations.

Key discussions including Uganda’s roadmap to digital transformation and digital strategies for social impact address the importance of robust digital infrastructure, cloud computing, and cybersecurity in supporting this transformation. By bringing together industry leaders and decision-makers, the summit aims to create actionable insights and partnerships that drive Uganda’s digital agenda.

See also: ITU Secretary-General, Doreen Bogdan-Martin applauds Uganda’s digital transformation roadmap

The post 9 Emerging Technologies That Will be Highlighted at the Inaugural National ICT Summit appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Under the theme “Economic Competitiveness through Strategic and Sustainable Digital Transformation,” the inaugural summit will be held at the Kampala Serena Hotel from 9-10, September and it will focus on fostering digital inclusion, enhancing automated trust, and highlighting the pivotal role of technology leaders in driving sustainable growth.

The National ICT Summit is set to convene government officials including; policymakers & regulatory authorities, IT security leaders, SPVM (Sourcing, Procurement, and Vendor Management) leaders, decision-makers, industry leaders, Angel Investors, Venture Capitalists, and technology enthusiasts, among others committed to advancing Uganda’s ICT sector.

Several topics including (1) Transforming procurement with digital solutions & regulatory insights, (2) AI in supply chain management (AI vs Myths), (3) ESG integration in business, and (4) Uganda’s roadmap to digital transformation & digital strategies for social impact, among others will be discussed.

See also: ITU Secretary-General, Doreen Bogdan-Martin applauds Uganda’s digital transformation roadmap

Among the speakers confirmed to grace the summit by ICTAU include; Elizabeth Ntege; CEO and Co-Founder of NFT Consults, Patrick Kadama; Project Manager at MTN Uganda, Jackie Namara Rukare; Marketing & Business Consultant, Michael Niyitegeka; Director of Refactory Academy, Grace Labong Achire; Team Leader at Vantage Communications, and James Byaruhanga; Managing Director of Roke Cloud.

The Inaugural ICT National Summit will facilitate thought leadership, and policy influence —and showcases groundbreaking projects that attract investment and drive digital transformation. These interactive components will ensure participants gain valuable insights and build meaningful connections, making the summit a must-attend event for anyone invested in the future of technology in Uganda and beyond.

The ICT Association of Uganda (ICTAU), a pivotal non-profit, member-based organization dedicated to advancing Uganda’s ICT sector is therefore calling the following to grace the summit;

1. Policymakers and regulatory authorities who influence digital transformation strategies.
2. Experts in cloud computing interested in exploring advanced cloud strategies and solutions.
3. SPVM leaders focused on optimizing procurement processes and vendor relationships through innovative technologies.
4. Individuals working on the technical aspects of ICT and looking for the latest advancements and practical solutions.
5. Leaders focused on infrastructure and operations security aiming to integrate robust security measures into their digital ecosystems.
6. CEOs, CIOs, and Directors from various sectors looking to leverage technology to enhance their operations and competitive edge.
7. NGOs and humanitarian agencies that are dedicated to leveraging technology for social impact and improving operational efficiency.
8. Investors seeking to identify and support promising technology startups and innovations.
9. Decision-makers overseeing infrastructure management, keen on modernizing and enhancing their technological infrastructure.

To be part of this inaugural ICT Summit, visit the summit website to register.

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