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

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The Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, and NITA Uganda Executive Director, Dr. Hatwib Mugasa, presented to the President the expanded coverage of the National Backbone Infrastructure, showing [him] the completed Phases 1 to 4, which cover 4,387km of fibre laid across the country, and the additional 5,845km expected to be laid in Phase 5, covering 63 more districts across the country.

The NBI expansion will bring broadband access to more communities enabling the Parish Development Model (PDM) to thrive. With the PDM Information System, beneficiary validation and progress tracking become faster and more efficient, unlocking opportunities for sustainable development and driving economic transformation.

The NBI Project emphasizes four key sectors intending to modernize households and transform the economy: commercial agriculture, industry, services, and information and communications technology (ICT).

The project also includes last-mile connectivity to over 2,800 sites, such as schools, hospitals, government institutions, parishes, youth and community centers. Furthermore, Wi-Fi coverage will be extended to an additional 1,754 sites nationwide.

The NBI project is a government imitative by the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance through its mandated body National Information Technology Authority (NITA) Uganda, intended to ensure that internet connectivity is available across the country at a reasonable rate.

The project has been supported by the Government of China through a concessional loan and has seen the successful completion of 4 Phases with Huawei Technologies contracted to construct the infrastructure. Following the completion of Phase 4, 1,567 government sites including MDAs and LGs have been connected to the NBI, the price of the internet has reduced from USD$205 in FY 2021/22 to USD$35 in FY2023/24, and internet penetration has increased from 25% in 2017 to 67% in 2023/24.

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Themed “Shaping Uganda’s Digital Future: Bridging Skills, Innovation and Opportunity” the job fair provided a dynamic platform for participants to connect with potential employers, gain insights from keynote speakers, and explore the latest trends in technology. Tens of job opportunities and internships were showcased by leading companies in the ICT industry, including Huawei Technologies (U) Limited.

Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja upon arrival, inspected the different exhibition booths from the different companies that were showcasing what they do and what opportunities they are offering to the youth in the ICT sector of Uganda. In her opening remarks, she highlighted the government’s commitment and prioritization of ICT in its development plans for the socio-economic transformation of the country.

“Through strategic investments in infrastructure, skills development, and innovation, we are creating an enabling environment for ICT to thrive,” said Rt. Hon. Nabbanja. “ICT remains one of the fastest-growing sectors globally, offering limitless opportunities and unlocking opportunities for economic growth, empowering our youth, and positioning Uganda in the global digital economy.”

Rt. Hon. Nabbanja applauded the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance and Huawei Technologies (U) Limited for organizing initiatives that aim to bridge the digital divide and skill mismatch gap to unlock the potential of our youth and build a robust ICT ecosystem.

Senior officials from the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, and other government MDAs were present at the job fair. Hon. Dr. Chris Bayromunsi, the Minister of ICT and National Guidance in his keynote address pointed out that the ministry is charged with the mandate of driving digital transformation in the country and ensuring technology benefits all Ugandans. “We must invest in young people and make them an asset for the country, not a burden,” he said.

Adding to his remarks the Permanent Secretary Ministry of ICT, Dr. Aminah Zawedde said the ministry’s goal is to create at least 30,000 direct jobs related to the ICT sector. In addition, she said, “We are emphasizing innovation and interpretation to get solutions that address the challenges facing the country.”

See also: Gov’t launch ‘UBC Front Bench’ program to enhance public engagement, first episode hosts ICT Ministry

Chinese Ambassador to Uganda Zhang Lizhong said that ICT is a key driver to a country’s development. The industrial chain cooperation, one of the 10 partnership actions announced by China during the Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation held in September this year, includes plans for China and Africa to build a digital technology cooperation center and initiate 20 digital demonstration projects, he said. “With its continued growth, I believe the ICT sector can create more job opportunities for talented young men and women, greatly addressing their concerns and fostering digital inclusiveness,” Zhang said.

Deputy Managing Director of Huawei Technologies (U) Limited, Ssali Gao emphasized Huawei’s commitment to bridging the gap between education and the industry. “At Huawei, we believe technology is a bridge to opportunity. They say that thanks to technology, the world has become one small global village and I could not agree more,” he said —adding “Soon, technology and ICT will be the backbone of every industry in the world. This means that skilled personnel in these sectors will be highly needed.”

“This, ladies and gentlemen, is why we are attending the National ICT Job Fair 2024,” Gao ends his remarks.

Attendees directly met and engaged with leading Ugandan institutions in the ICT industry offering jobs, internships, and training exploring potential roles in software development, data science, network engineering, and cyber security, to mention but a few. The skills development and training workshops provided hands-on sessions led by experts from Huawei and other industry leaders which offered training in sought-after skills, including coding, digital marketing, resume writing, and artificial intelligence (AI) applications.

Furthermore, esteemed speakers and panelists from government, academia, and the private sector discussed trends, challenges, and future prospects in Uganda’s ICT landscape availing connections with ICT professionals, innovators, and peers to explore partnerships and collaborations.

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During the Closing Ceremony of Phase One at the Innovation and Growth Acceleration Program, organized by Youth Startup Academy Uganda (YSAU) at Mestil Hotel in Kampala, Moses Watasa, the Commissioner for Information and Communication at the Ministry of ICT was pressed for a timeline on when Ugandans, particularly those in rural and underserved areas, could expect affordable internet. Acknowledging the urgency of the issue, Watasa outlined a comprehensive plan to achieve nationwide internet connectivity within the next four to six years. This timeline reflects the government’s ambition to bridge the digital divide while making internet costs more manageable for the population.

“We have a steep target, I believe we will beat it,” said Watasa. “We want to have internet connectivity across the whole of Uganda within the next four, or not more than six years. I want to thank NITA Uganda, who are building fiber to connect even the remotest parts of the country.”

While fiber optic technology forms the backbone of Uganda’s internet expansion strategy, it is not without limitations. For geographically challenging areas such as islands and mountainous regions, deploying fiber is often impractical. To address this, Watasa said the government is exploring satellite technology to ensure hard-to-get places including islands and mountainous regions can have an internet connection.

One of the central issues in Uganda’s digital landscape is the prohibitive cost of internet access. High costs disproportionately affect young people, including innovators, developers, and entrepreneurs, limiting their ability to leverage technology for growth and development. Watasa said;

When the cost is high, it becomes difficult for young people to innovate.

Watasa revealed that the government will reduce internet prices by at least one-third or even 50% by January 2025. He expressed confidence in this target, stating, “I can say that on the record: if the internet cost doesn’t come down by 50%, you can come and take one of my arms.” This bold commitment underscores the seriousness of the government’s efforts to make internet access more affordable.

The government’s approach is holistic, recognizing that affordable internet is a critical enabler of development across multiple sectors, from education to healthcare and agriculture. By empowering young people with the tools and connectivity they need, the ministry aims to position Uganda as a hub for innovation in the region.

Uganda’s internet pricing has been a persistent concern, with the country ranked among the most expensive in the East African region. According to Cable.co.uk, an internet pricing comparison platform, Uganda ranks 103rd out of 237 countries on internet affordability.

The average cost of 1GB of mobile data in Uganda is approximately UGX5,000, a stark contrast to neighboring countries like Somalia, Rwanda, and Kenya, which rank significantly higher in affordability, according to the Global Digital Report compiled by Meltwater, a global media monitoring firm, in collaboration with other data firms like Statista.

These rankings highlight the urgency of Uganda’s efforts to bring down internet costs and compete regionally in attracting tech-driven investments.

Watasa affirmed that reducing internet costs is a top priority for the government, noting that it is critical for fostering innovation and improving the quality of life for Ugandans.

Also read:

• • Ministry of ICT outlines achievements of the ICT sector in the last 5 years
  • Ministry of ICT, ISPs have plans to reduce the cost of internet, says Ps. Aminah Zawedde
  • Gov’t launch ‘UBC Front Bench’ program to enhance public engagement, the first episode hosts ICT Ministry

The government’s commitment to affordable internet is backed by substantial investments in nationwide connectivity infrastructure. Through initiatives led by NITA Uganda, the country’s national backbone fiber infrastructure is steadily expanding to cover underserved areas. These investments are complemented by partnerships with the private sector and international organizations to leverage resources and expertise in achieving Uganda’s connectivity goals.

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The AVR Cluster Center is designed to address longstanding challenges in STEMI education, where complex and abstract concepts often require more than traditional teaching methods can provide. With AVR technology, students at UICT can now learn in immersive, interactive environments that make learning engaging and accessible. This 20-seat lab facility is equipped with advanced VR headsets, AR glasses, smart screens, and high-performance computers. The AVR Center offers tools for 3D modeling, virtual labs, and interactive simulations, empowering students with hands-on experiences that bridge theory and practical application.

Dr. Fredrick Kitoogo highlighting the potential of AVR technology to address critical obstacles in education said education, particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Innovation (STEMI) subjects, faces significant challenges. “Complex and abstract concepts are difficult to teach and understand within traditional classroom settings. Insufficient student engagement, uncontextualized learning, and limited teacher-student collaboration further compound these challenges,” he said. “The introduction of AVR technology promises to address these issues by providing immersive, interactive, and contextualized learning experiences that make complex concepts accessible and engaging for all students.”

The launch of the AVR Cluster Center is a testament to UICT’s commitment to fostering a knowledge-based economy in Uganda, where technological advancements play a central role in economic development. Dean Munene, Chair of the Governing Council at UICT, elaborated on the institution’s vision.

“In a world where technology shapes nearly every aspect of our lives, the decision to incorporate AVR into teaching and learning at UICT stems from a need to modernize our educational methods, enhance student engagement, and equip our learners with skills that are essential for success in the digital age,” he remarked. “This lab provides our students and faculty with hardware platforms and experimental devices that facilitate the creation of digital environments, promoting active student engagement.”

The government has robustly supported this initiative through the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance. Dr. Aminah Zawedde, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, underscored the collective effort required to drive Uganda’s digital transformation.

“As we move forward, let us remember that our journey toward a knowledge-based economy is a collective effort,” said Dr. Zawedde. “The government remains committed to providing the necessary support and creating an enabling environment for this and other digital initiatives to thrive.” She added, “Together, we will ensure that Uganda’s digital transformation is inclusive, impactful, and sustainable.”

Hon. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, Minister of ICT and National Guidance, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder collaboration to foster innovation, support research, and promote new technologies that benefit society.

The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has also committed resources to ensure the AVR Center’s success. Eng. Christine Mugimba, Director of ICT and Research at UCC, reaffirmed UCC’s dedication to advancing Uganda’s digital agenda through initiatives like UICT’s AVR Cluster Center.

“As UCC, we’re committed to empowering UICT’s new AVR Cluster Center with cutting-edge tech, expert training, and industry opportunities for students and researchers,” she said. “Uganda’s most valuable resource is its people, and through human capacity development, we will drive our nation’s digital agenda forward.”

UICT’s AVR Cluster Center represents a strategic step toward empowering Uganda’s youth with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a technology-driven world. Through immersive, mixed-reality learning experiences, UICT is setting a precedent for the future of education in Uganda, one that prepares students for the demands of a rapidly evolving digital economy.

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The fair is focused on the need to empower the next-gen with digital skills, fostering an environment where innovation thrives and career opportunities in technology expand.

The event will feature leading ICT companies, startups, government agencies, and academic institutions, all to connect Uganda’s young professionals with transformative job opportunities in the technology sector. The fair will host a series of interactive activities, including:

1. Employer booths: Attendees will directly meet and engage with leading Ugandan institutions in the ICT industry offering jobs, internships, and training., exploring potential roles in areas such as software development, data science, network engineering, and cyber security.
2. Skills development and training workshops: Hands-on sessions led by experts from Huawei Technologies and other industry leaders will offer training in sought-after skills, including coding, digital marketing, and artificial intelligence (AI) applications.
3. Panel discussions, keynotes, and networking opportunities: Speakers from government, academia, and the private sector will discuss trends, challenges, and future prospects in Uganda’s ICT landscape availing connections with ICT professionals, innovators, and peers to explore partnerships and collaborations.

The ministry and Huawei are calling on the public to attend the National ICT Job Fair 2024 to shape the future of Uganda’s digital workforce and unlock endless opportunities in the world of technology. Students, recent graduates, and young professionals interested in ICT careers are encouraged to register early to secure their spot and stand a chance to win various Huawei devices and gadgets.

As a longstanding partner in Uganda’s digital transformation, Huawei Technologies continues to support initiatives that enhance the ICT talent ecosystem through the National ICT Job Fair, Huawei ICT Academy, and Huawei ICT Competitions.

The Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Chris Baryomunsi, has always recognized Huawei Technologies’ role in solving the unemployment question which he describes as “a big challenge” — noting that ICT plays a big part in solving the unemployment problem facing the youth.

“As the custodians of our nation’s development, it is our responsibility to provide our young people with opportunities that will not only empower them but also contribute to the growth of our country,” says Baryomunsi. “The ICT sector is pivotal in this endeavor. Investments in ICT infrastructure will propel this sector forward.”

Interested participants can register for the 2024-2025 Huawei ICT competitions (free via HERE). Similarly, the National ICT Job Fair 2024 is an excellent opportunity for youth to take the first step in building their ICT careers. The event is free to attend, but registration is required.

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The ICDL Africa Award celebrates outstanding contributions to digital advancement across Africa.

The continental award, announced at the annual ICDL Africa Summit in Kigali, Rwanda, acknowledges Dr. Zawedde’s pioneering work in revolutionizing Uganda’s digital landscape and her career-long dedication to leveraging technology for social and economic transformation.

Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Zawedde has consistently championed technology as a catalyst for change. “Technology isn’t just about digital tools—it’s about transforming lives and livelihoods,” she said. “From my early days in the tech sector to my current role, I’ve witnessed firsthand how digital solutions can create tangible social and economic impact for our citizens.”

A cornerstone of Dr. Zawedde’s vision has been the digital transformation of Uganda’s public sector. Under her leadership, the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance has launched an ambitious initiative to enhance digital competencies among government employees, recognizing that a digitally skilled civil service is essential for effective e-government implementation.

“For e-government to succeed, our public servants must be digitally fluent,” Dr. Zawedde explained. “When government employees embrace digital tools, we can deliver services more efficiently, reduce bureaucracy, and bring government closer to the people.”

The ministry’s comprehensive digital skilling program for civil servants has already shown promising results: increasing the adoption of digital platforms across government departments and significantly reducing operational costs through digital automation.

Under Dr. Zawedde’s guidance, Uganda has emerged as a regional leader in digital innovation, implementing a comprehensive Digital Transformation Roadmap that has become a blueprint for other African nations. Her approach has consistently emphasized technology’s role in addressing social challenges and creating economic opportunities.

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

“Dr. Zawedde’s commitment to digital transformation goes beyond infrastructure development,” said Peter Maina ICDL Africa’s Regional Director in a press statement. “She has consistently demonstrated that technology, when properly leveraged, can be a powerful tool for social inclusion and economic empowerment.”

Key achievements during her tenure include:

• Establishment of partnerships with global technology organizations to provide internationally recognized digital skills certification.
• Implementation of targeted programs to bridge the digital divide in rural communities
• Launch of initiatives specifically designed to enhance women’s and youth participation in the digital economy.
• Development of policy frameworks supporting digital innovation and technology-driven governance.
• The creation of digital one-stop centers is bringing government services closer to citizens.

The impact of these initiatives has been substantial. Under Dr. Zawedde’s guidance, Uganda has seen a significant increase in digital literacy rates, with over 1,000 citizens receiving digital skills certification in the past year alone. The ministry’s focus on digital inclusion has also led to a marked increase in technology adoption in traditionally underserved areas.

Looking ahead, Dr. Zawedde’s Ministry has outlined ambitious plans to further accelerate Uganda’s digital transformation. These include:

• Expansion of high-speed internet infrastructure to remote areas.
• Integration of digital literacy programs into formal education curricula.
• Development of innovation hubs across the country.
• Advanced digital skills training for all government employees.
• Implementation of an integrated e-government services platform.

See also: Ministry of ICT outline achievements of the ICT sector in last 5 years

“Our vision is of a Uganda where every citizen, regardless of their location or background, can access government services at their fingertips,” Dr. Zawedde stated. “This requires not just technology infrastructure, but also a digitally competent civil service and an enabling policy environment.”

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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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“This program is intended to bring various ministers and their permanent secretaries and agencies so that we interact with the public by explaining what we do,” explained Dr. Hon. Chris Baryomunsi, Minister of ICT and National Guidance. “The public will also be able to make comments and raise questions —which we can clarify —and also when we sit in our ministries to make budgets and plans, we should be to communicate [through this platform, UBC Front Bench] to Ugandans as a way of accounting.”

While highlighting the primary purpose of the program, Dr. Baryomunsi said the government does a lot of work through its Ministries but doesn’t have adequate platforms where they can explain/share what they do to the general public despite having spokespersons in these MDAs. Therefore, the UBC Front Bench Program seeks to bridge this gap by providing an interactive platform where the public can engage with government officials, ask questions, and receive clarifications.

The UBC Front Bench initiative will ensure that Ugandans are well-informed about the actions and decisions of the government.

UBC Front Bench is designed as a platform for accountability, enabling the government to discuss its initiatives and responsibilities with the general public openly. The platform will enable the government through its various ministries and agencies, to account to Ugandans by going into details about what they do daily. The government hopes that this will foster a culture of transparency, allowing citizens to have a better understanding of the efforts being made on their behalf.

In the first episode, which aired on UBC on Monday at 8:30 PM (EAT), Joram Paul Ssonko, a News anchor at UBC, hosted the Ps. Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Aminah Zawedde, and the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Hon. Chris Baryomunsi. They discussed, among other things, the digital transformation roadmap, internet connectivity, job opportunities, and artificial intelligence policies.

Digital Transformation Roadmap: Paving the way towards Vision 2040 and NDP III

The Digital Transformation Roadmap launched in August 2023 by Vice President, H.E Jessica Alupo, 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 and 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.

See also: ITU Secretary-General, Doreen Bogdan-Martin applauds Uganda’s digital transformation roadmap at ITU Global Symposium for Regulators

The digital transformation roadmap is not merely another stand-alone vision but serves as a practical guide that steers the country towards the broader goals of Vision 2040 and the National Development Plan III (NDP III). The Ps. Ministry of ICT and National Guidance; Dr. Aminah Zawedde emphasized the roadmap’s importance in translating long-term aspirations into actionable steps.

“The digital transformation roadmap is aligned with our digital vision of ensuring a digitally enabled country to make our citizens better citizens,” said Dr. Zawedde. “This five-year roadmap outlines key priorities that the government will focus on to achieve its digital objectives,” she added —emphasizing that as each five-year phase progresses, the government will continue to measure and evaluate progress, with the ultimate aim of ensuring sufficient digital infrastructure by 2040.

One of the key priorities within the roadmap is the expansion of digital infrastructure, particularly to underserved areas of the country. The government is implementing digital infrastructure to ensure connectivity across the country. The connectivity is vital for enabling nationwide access to digital services and ensuring no region or citizen is left behind.

Cybersecurity, data protection, and privacy are also central to the roadmap’s agenda. As Uganda transitions into a more digitally driven society, protecting citizens’ data and ensuring a secure online environment is paramount. “We have to ensure that we are operating in a secure environment,” said Dr. Zawedde. “People are sensitized and aware,” she added —pointing out that these are increasingly critical issues as more services are moved online.

In addition to infrastructure and cybersecurity, the roadmap also focuses on digital skills development and fostering innovation.

Digital skilling as well as taking care of the innovation space – innovation and entrepreneurship – is key.

The digital transformation roadmap also aligns with the National Development Plan III, which shares a common goal of driving economic transformation through digitalization. The two plans complement each other, ensuring that Uganda’s economic growth is rooted in digital advancement.

See also: The Inaugural ICT National Summit will leverage the digital transformation roadmap, says ICTAU boss

Government on track to achieve 90% broadband coverage

Dr. Baryomunsi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that 90% of Uganda is covered by broadband within the next five years. “We have a National Broadband Policy of 2018 which we put in place as a Ministry that guides on how we are going to expand,” he said. This ambitious target is part of a broader national strategy that is aimed at enhancing the country’s digital infrastructure to support economic growth and accessibility to information.

The National Broadband Policy, established in 2018, provides a roadmap for the country’s ICT development. It requires telecommunication companies and other service providers to ensure widespread coverage within specific timelines. “Companies, partners, and service providers who come to provide ICT-related services in Uganda are commanded by policy to cover up to 90% within five years,” the Minister emphasized. The remaining 10% of coverage, he noted will be funded by the government.

One of the cornerstones of the Ministry’s plan is the continued expansion of the National Backbone Infrastructure (NBI), which is the country’s main optical fiber network. Four phases have been completed covering over 50% of the country —and now it is in the fifth phase which focuses on extending coverage to the remaining parts of the country —while working on the last-mile connection which will focus on connecting government district offices and sub-county offices.

Dr. Baryomunsi is confident that the broadband expansion will be completed in the next few years. “In the coming two to three years, we should be able to see the country covered in terms of broadband connectivity,” he affirmed, adding that private actors are continuously licensed to ensure they also contribute to the nation’s broadband efforts.

The government’s ICT agenda is to create 30,000 jobs for youth annually

To combat unemployment, particularly among the youth, the Ministry has outlined ambitious plans to create over 30,000 direct jobs annually through ICT. “One of our objectives and targets is to use technology, and ICT to create jobs for our young people,” Dr. Baryomunsi explained, noting that leveraging ICT can provide numerous employment opportunities locally and internationally.

The government prioritizing ICT and its expansion of digital infrastructure and services offer significant potential to create jobs for the youth. By addressing the challenges of internet accessibility, and device affordability, and providing a conducive environment for BPO operations, Uganda positions itself to achieve its goal of creating 30,000 jobs annually through ICT.

Developing AI policies to harness technology for key sectors

President Museveni in a recent retreat with cabinet members and permanent secretaries, tasked them to formulate a policy to guide the adoption and integration of artificial intelligence (AI) across various sectors including; healthcare, education, agriculture, etc.

The government acknowledges the growing relevance of AI in addressing national challenges and driving progress. “The government is very well aware that AI is very important —therefore we are creating a favorable environment or space for it to grow,” said Dr. Zawedde. “As we develop policy, it has to target different sectors or spheres to grow.”

The ministry is working with the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), Uganda Telecom, and various stakeholders to draft the policy —with an AI task force already in place. The task force was announced in July this year by UCC, however, it raised concerns among some stakeholders, particularly the youth, who feel that the task force lacks diversity and representation of younger generations.

A task force on Artificial Intelligence made up of experts from within @UCC_Official & academia has been launched this morning.

The task force will develop a comprehensive concept note addressing various aspects of #AI to inform relevant interventions.@UCC_ED said #AI is a… pic.twitter.com/lAitOybZjN

— UCC (@UCC_Official) July 26, 2024

The Permanent Secretary emphasized that the ministry aims to create a framework that will encourage the development and scaling up of AI-driven solutions, such as health applications or tools for real-time language translation.

The government is working hard to create and adhere to an environment suitable for AI’s growth. This could be the moment for the country to unleash innovation and incorporate AI into key strategic sectors to optimize the opportunities birthed by this revolutionary technology, which would consequently spur national development and improve the lives of its citizens.

Developing an AI Policy is a government directive but most importantly it’s a strategic commitment to futureproofing the country’s key sectors to make them more resilient, efficient, and responding to the needs of the Ugandans.

See also: Ministry of ICT outline achievements of the ICT sector in last 5 years

The post Gov’t Launch ‘UBC Front Bench’ Program to Enhance Public Engagement, First Episode Hosts ICT Ministry appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Hon. Kabbyanga acknowledged AI’s profound influence on every facet of modern life, from daily activities to global communication. “As we all know, AI is one of the most transformative technologies of our time, holding the power to influence nearly every aspect of our lives, including global communications,” he said —expressing concern about misinformation, and highlighting how the revolutionary technology can exacerbate and combat this pervasive issue.

While artificial intelligence can quickly disseminate information using fake profiles and altered content it also provides resources, for identifying and combating these narratives to uphold factual correctness. “While AI can unfortunately be misused to amplify deceptive content through means like bots and fake accounts, it also holds the potential to filter and promote accurate information,” the State Minister told the audience.

Hon. Kabbyanga further stressed the ethical responsibility that comes with AI’s power. He urged for the creation of standards to regulate the development and application of AI emphasizing transparency and accountability while prioritizing the welfare of Ugandan citizens. He fervently advised the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) to anticipate progress in AI and adjust accordingly with urgency. UCC is expected to handle this task through their newly developed AI Task Force which was introduced on July 26th. Comprised mainly of experts from within the Commission and academia, the Task Force is developing a comprehensive concept note on AI, covering various aspects such as regulation, ethics, and potential applications.

In a notable shift, Hon. Kabbyanga praised the recent decision by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Museveni to allow the use of gadgets such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets in schools. He argued that restricting gadgets in educational settings hinders students’ progress, particularly in a digital age where research and learning rely increasingly on technology. Instead of banning gadgets, he advocated regulating content and ensuring students access appropriate educational material.

Hon. Kabbyanga recalled personal experiences from their time at university, contrasting the crowded lecture halls and libraries with today’s digital learning environments. With gadgets and AI, he said students can access vast libraries and attend lectures remotely, making education more accessible and flexible. In addition, Hon. Kabbyanga said the Ministry is committed to expanding digital resources in schools, including the introduction of computers at the primary school level, to enhance the learning experience.

The State Minister called to embrace AI rather than fear it. Acknowledging the difficulties presented by misinformation but remaining optimistic about the prospects for overcoming them through teamwork and thoughtful technology management is key, to addressing these issues.

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The State Minister emphasized the importance of leveraging AI capabilities to foster an informed and educated populace that is better equipped to handle challenges and setbacks.

He ended his keynote speech on an optimistic note —declaring the Annual Media Convention open and calling for continued dialogue and innovation in the face of AI’s rapid advancement.

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