The association [FITSPA] emerged as a runner-up in the Leadership in Regulatory and Policy Impact Award category. Notably, there are six other categories; Excellence in Fintech and Startup Support Award, Excellence in Capacity Building and Talent Development Award, Innovation in Industry Reports and Knowledge Sharing Award, Best Initiative for Consumer Protection and Growth Award, Outstanding Event of the Year Award, and Outstanding DFA of the Year Award.

The awards honor and celebrate excellence and amplify the influence and reach of DFAs. The awards underscore the vital role DFAs play in building the ecosystem, demonstrating their enormous value and capacity to influence.

FITSPA Uganda has been a key advocate for the inclusion of the fintech ecosystem in regulatory and policy frameworks established by key regulatory bodies. Through its persistent efforts, the association has ensured that fintech players across the country have a voice in shaping policies that directly impact innovation, growth, and consumer protection within the sector. By actively engaging with regulators, FITSPA has contributed to the creation of a more enabling environment that balances innovation with regulatory oversight, fostering the growth of a thriving and inclusive fintech ecosystem.

Uganda’s fintech sector has witnessed remarkable growth, thanks in large part to the pivotal role played by the association (FITSPA). As a champion of innovation and inclusivity, FITSPA has spearheaded several initiatives to shape a conducive regulatory and policy environment. By bridging the gap between regulators and fintech innovators, FITSPA has positioned Uganda as a trailblazer in creating a forward-thinking ecosystem that supports sustainable growth in the digital finance landscape.

One of FITSPA’s key achievements is its advocacy for the licensing of digital lenders through the Uganda Microfinance Regulatory Authority. This milestone ensures that digital lenders operate within a regulated framework and fosters trust and accountability within the sector. Additionally, FITSPA’s support in developing Tier 4 Digital Lending Guidelines demonstrates its commitment to creating an inclusive and responsible digital lending ecosystem. By helping regulators understand digitization and data-sharing, FITSPA is paving the way for robust financial practices that benefit consumers and businesses.

FITSPA’s influence extends beyond digital lending to the broader fintech landscape. Its collaboration with the Financial Intelligence Authority to establish a risk assessment framework for virtual assets has strengthened the sector’s alignment with global compliance standards. Furthermore, FITSPA has been instrumental in guiding fintech companies through the complex process of obtaining licenses from the Central Bank of Uganda, ensuring seamless navigation of regulatory requirements. These efforts collectively highlight FITSPA’s unwavering dedication to fostering a resilient, innovative, and globally competitive fintech sector in Uganda.

See also: Dr. Twinemanzi: The future of fintech in Uganda and the broader digital economy relies heavily on collaboration

The DFA Awards spotlights the transformational initiatives and leadership of DFAs and their role in shaping the future of the global fintech landscape. From capacity building and startup support to regulatory advocacy and consumer protection, DFAs are at the forefront of creating sustainable impact and advancing finance inclusion. Their work empowers professionals, strengthens ecosystems, and propels the industry toward responsible and inclusive growth.

As national leaders, DFAs offer unparalleled access to extensive networks and informed industry insights. They advocate for enabling regulatory environments, cultivate strategic partnerships, provide technical assistance, establish standards for market conduct and practice, and enhance capacity within the profession. These efforts are pivotal in fostering collaboration, driving fintech innovation and growth, and enhancing ecosystem resilience.

The post AllianceDFA Honors FITSPA Uganda at the DFA Awards for Advancing Digital Finance and Fintech Innovation appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

“At Double Q, we understand that our customers’ needs are unique and diverse. That’s why we have curated these three models to cater to different industries and applications —from construction to logistics, agriculture to mining, we have a Sinotruk model that is tailored to meet your specific needs,” Richard Musani; Head of Marketing at Double Q told the press during the launch that was held at Double Q head offices in Busega.

Tang Wenjum, Country Manager of Sino Truck International Group in Uganda, highlighted the growing demand for construction and logistics equipment. Uganda’s ambitious construction projects have created a robust need for reliable, high-performance vehicles to support the transportation of materials and equipment. Sino Truck’s new offerings aim to bridge this gap and position itself as a key enabler in the construction and logistics sectors for the country’s evolving infrastructure needs.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Works and Transport, Hon. Gen. Katumba Wamala, Kajuna, the Director of Transport in the Ministry of Works and Transport, highlighted this development’s significance for Uganda’s economy and infrastructure. “This occasion reflects the progress the government is making, including partnerships that support the development of Uganda’s transport and construction sectors, which are key drivers of our national agenda,” he said. “The introduction of new models of Sino trucks in Uganda is poised to transform the transport and logistics landscape, creating jobs, boosting local capacity, and contributing to the national economy.”

The new Sino truck models; Howo Max Tractor, Howo NX Cargo, and Howo M7 Light Cargo have been designed with Uganda’s unique terrain and requirements in mind —and they feature reduced emissions and advanced safety features, which align with the country’s national sustainability goals.

Kajuna urged Double Q to place a strong emphasis on vehicle safety and driver training. The emphasis on sustainability and safety aligns with Uganda’s broader goals of modernizing its infrastructure and ensuring the welfare of its citizens. “Vehicle safety is of paramount importance to the government,” he told the press on the sidelines of the launch event, encouraging the company to integrate advanced safety features and provide training clinics for drivers and operators. These efforts, he said, would not only enhance road safety but also help reduce costs for vehicle operators.

The training clinic programs aim to equip drivers and operators with the skills needed to navigate advanced Sino trucks, integrate new technologies, and ensure optimal vehicle use. By fostering education and innovation, Double Q contributes to a safer, more efficient transportation ecosystem in Uganda, heralding a promising future for the sector.

The new Sino trucks, unlike secondhand alternatives, represent a step toward modernization and sustainability. With this venture, Double Q is set to enhance accessibility to quality goods and services while promoting the use of advanced technology in Uganda’s transport sector. The Ministry has encouraged Ugandans to support this initiative by purchasing these products.

• The Howo Max Tractor Truck is a New Generation all-rounder offering Maximum reliability, Efficiency, Safety, and Comfort. It has been designed for heavy-duty applications and boasts a golden powertrain with a powerful MC engine equipped with 430 horsepower, an advanced transmission system, and enhanced safety features. This truck is perfect for long-haul transportation, construction, and mining industries.
• The Howo NX Cargo Truck with Germany Technology is a first choice for cross-border goods transportation is built for versatility and reliability, offering a range of engine options, improved fuel efficiency, and increased payload capacity. This truck features cutting-edge technology from Germany, ensuring unparalleled performance and efficiency.
• The Howo M7 Light Cargo Truck is engineered for comfort and performance, featuring a modern design, advanced safety features, and improved fuel efficiency. This truck is ideal for urban transportation, logistics, and small-scale businesses.

Meanwhile, the event also marked a significant milestone, showcasing Uganda’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment that attracts investors and supports economic growth. According to Kajuna, the government has active policies and infrastructure to encourage investments aligning with the country’s broader development objectives. By celebrating such advancements, Uganda underscores its readiness to embrace modern solutions that drive progress.

A key highlight of Double Q’s initiative is the establishment of an assembly plant in Masaka. This development aligns with the government’s emphasis on standard compliance and directly contributes to local job creation and economic empowerment.

Concluding the ceremony, Kajuna reflected on the broader implications of the launch. “The launch of new Sino trucks in Uganda is not just a celebration—it is a celebration of Uganda’s potential for growth and development. Let us continue to work together to build a brighter future for all Ugandans,” he said.

Double Q is the leading and authorized distributor of Sino trucks and XCMG road equipment, as well as spare parts and accessories for heavy machines and trucks in Uganda.

See also: Eng. Dr. Timothy Tibesigwa launches GWM showroom and flagship Tank 500 SUV in Uganda

The post Double Q Launches New Models of Sino Trucks in the Ugandan Market appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

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.

The post Pres. Museveni Launches Phase 5 of the National Backbone Infrastructure appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Kampala Impact Day 2024, a hybrid event is redefining the entrepreneurial landscape by empowering entrepreneurs with tools and connections to drive sustainable growth. Rooted in the Triple Bottom Line principle—People, Planet, and Profit—the event aims to provide an inclusive platform for social entrepreneurs to drive meaningful change within their communities and beyond. Entrepreneurs also have the opportunity to exhibit their businesses, highlighting innovative solutions that address societal challenges while promoting environmental sustainability and economic growth.

The Kampala Impact Day underscores the importance of collaboration among entrepreneurs, investors, and ecosystem leaders, fostering synergies that amplify impact.

One key activity of the event will be a pitching session, where six (6) entrepreneurs will present their ventures to a panel of potential investors. With only three minutes to captivate the audience, they will showcase their innovations, market potential, and readiness for investment. The stakes are high, as awards await those with the most compelling pitches, including recognition for innovation, teamwork, and business scalability. This competitive segment aims to inspire and reward excellence in social entrepreneurship.

The entrepreneurs that will be pitching include;

1. Ethan Bampeire; Founder of Neexa AI, an AI startup helping businesses sell more and grow effortlessly through automation of marketing and sales.
2. Emmanuel Twesigy; CEO and Co-founder of Everlend Agritech Limited, a B2B digital platform that allows smallholder farmers access climate-resilient food crop seeds for planting. The platform also is an online farmers’ marketplace where agro-produce buyers meet with sellers
3. Steven Kavuma; Founder of Revmake, an energy tech company whose mission is to create a circular economy for lithium-ion batteries that has a positive effect on the planet, people, and profit. They aim to add value by treating used lithium-ion batteries not as waste but as a valuable material for recreation.
4. Wendy Gloria Musiimenta; Founder of Nile Chocolates, a micro-batch company that aims to sensitize the community of farmers and schools about the food science behind cocoa farming and hence promoting value addition at the origin, environmental preservation, but also emphasizing health aspects
5. Doreen Jean Nsasiirwe; Founder of Westlink Delicacy API Group Limited, a startup offering natural, nutritious, and sustainable alternatives to synthetic health products to enhance the health and wellness of its customers while tackling the critical issues of poor health and environmental degradation.
6. Miriam Akoramazima; Founder of Glory Revolution Limited, a startup with a mission to combat malnutrition and food scarcity.

The post The 6 Entrepreneurs Pitching at the 8th Annual Kampala Impact Day appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

With one in two people lacking access to essential healthcare, leveraging innovation and developing new models for scaling access to healthcare is critical. Health entrepreneurship, particularly women-led models, is fundamental to addressing this gap. WiNFUND is on a mission to transform healthcare access to the most vulnerable by leveraging the power of female entrepreneurship. It advocates for equitable access to financing and invests in the power of women-led startups addressing global health challenges.

WiNFUND is more than just a financial partner; it’s a movement to amplify women’s voices in healthcare innovation. By supporting female-led initiatives, they seek to drive meaningful change in the health sector while promoting gender equity in entrepreneurship.

The non-profit initiative is searching for ambitious and innovative women entrepreneurs whose solutions are already making a difference in healthcare across Africa. Here are the key criteria:

• Ventures must be women-led, emphasizing the power of women in shaping the future of healthcare.
• Solutions should directly address access to healthcare in Africa, tackling pressing challenges such as affordability, availability, or quality of services.
• Applicants should be operating ventures at the revenue stage, ready to scale, and able to demonstrate their investability.
• WiNFUND values innovative and sustainable business models that ensure long-term success while delivering measurable social and economic benefits.

Selected entrepreneurs will receive up to USD$250,000 (approx. UGX925.5 million) in funding. This significant financial boost is designed to help ventures scale their solutions, reach more communities, and achieve greater impact.

The prize goes beyond financial gain —as WiNFUND opens doors to an expansive network of industry partners, investors, and other entrepreneurs. This ecosystem is vital for building collaborations, securing additional resources, and navigating the challenges of scaling a business. In addition, WiNFUND provides bespoke support to help businesses thrive. From strategic guidance to operational advice, entrepreneurs gain access to the tools and expertise needed for sustainable growth.

WiNFUND’s initiative has already demonstrated the transformative potential of supporting women entrepreneurs. Previous funding cycles have enabled startups to expand their reach to underserved communities, innovate & scale solutions that improve maternal health, chronic disease management, and health education, and build sustainable models that attract additional funding and partnerships.

Women play a critical role in Africa’s healthcare ecosystem, often as caregivers, nurses, and community health workers. However, their contributions as innovators and entrepreneurs remain underrepresented. Supporting women in leadership positions ensures diverse perspectives in problem-solving, leading to more inclusive and effective healthcare solutions.

The WiNFUND initiative is a remarkable example of how technology and innovation can drive social impact, especially in the healthcare sector, which is critical for the growth and development of any nation. By supporting women-led health startups, WiNFUND is empowering women entrepreneurs to solve complex healthcare challenges, create jobs, and make a positive difference in their communities —in other words, it’s fostering systemic change that benefits entire communities.

WiNFUND is partly financed through the sale of WiNFUND non-fundable tokens (NFTs) designed by Rwandan artist Christella Bijou. The collection has been supported and made available in close collaboration with Tokenproof.

The deadline to apply for the fund is December 13, 2024, at 3pm CEST (5pm EAT). APPLY HERE (LINK)

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Kampala Impact Day 2024, a hybrid event —will be held under the theme “Celebrating Innovation, Collaboration, and the Role of Investment Readiness in Scaling Social Enterprises Blended Finance” and bring together ecosystem players including social businesses/entrepreneurs, incubation hubs, investors, government, private sector, development agencies, CSOs, and the general public, etc. to collaboratively pave way for the future of Uganda’s social business startup ecosystem

Kampala Impact Day is redefining the entrepreneurial landscape by empowering entrepreneurs with tools and connections to drive sustainable growth. Rooted in the Triple Bottom Line principle—People, Planet, and Profit—the event aims to provide an inclusive platform for social entrepreneurs to drive meaningful change within their communities and beyond. Entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to exhibit their businesses, highlighting innovative solutions that address societal challenges while promoting environmental sustainability and economic growth. The event underscores the importance of collaboration among entrepreneurs, investors, and ecosystem leaders, fostering synergies that amplify impact.

One of the highlights of the day will be the Investment Readiness Masterclass, a tailored session designed to empower entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge necessary to attract investment. This masterclass will delve into the nuances of the investment journey, from understanding different funding stages to crafting strategies for successful capital raising. By the end of the session, participants will have actionable insights and the confidence to navigate the complex landscape of investment, propelling their ventures toward scalability and growth.

Adding to the activities will be the pitching session, where six entrepreneurs will step into the spotlight to present their ventures to a panel of potential investors. With only three minutes to captivate the audience, these entrepreneurs will showcase their innovations, market potential, and readiness for investment. The stakes are high, as awards await those with the most compelling pitches, including recognition for innovation, teamwork, and business scalability. This competitive segment aims to inspire and reward excellence in social entrepreneurship.

The entrepreneurs that will be pitching include Ethan Bampeire; Founder of Neexa AI, Wendy Gloria Musiiment; Founder of Nile Chocolates, Steven Kavuma; Founder of Revmake, Doreen Jean Nsasiirwe; Founder of Westlink Delicacy API Group Limited, Emmanuel Twesigy; CEO and Co-founder; Everlend Agritech Limited, and Miriam Akoramazima; Founder of Glory Revolution Limited.

The day will culminate in a prestigious Awards Ceremony, celebrating excellence across various facets of entrepreneurship. From Best Branding and Excellence in Customer Care to Outstanding Entrepreneur of the Year, these accolades will honor individuals who embody creativity, resilience, and impact. These awards will not only spotlight entrepreneurial excellence but also inspire others to pursue impactful and sustainable business ventures.

1. Best Branding Award

This award will be given to recognize the entrepreneur who has demonstrated exceptional creativity in developing their brand, making it memorable and eye-catching for customers. This includes ensuring a perfect fit for selling in all markets, both locally and internationally, along with high-quality packaging that elevates the brand experience.

2. Excellence in Customer Care Award

This award will be given to the entrepreneur who has consistently delivered outstanding customer service. The recipient will have shown a strong commitment to serving the customers with a lasting experience that sets them apart.

3. Increased Awareness Award

This award will recognize the entrepreneur with the most compelling pitch deck, showcasing clear market potential, scalability, financial soundness, and a strong value proposition. The recipient of this award will be determined by a panel of judges after the pitching session.

4. Outstanding Entrepreneur of the Year Award

This award will be given to two entrepreneurs (female and male) who have shown exceptional performance in terms of business growth since the completion of the Sustainable Technology for Africa program (ST4A Program). The winners will have demonstrated innovation, resilience, impact, and a reliable communication base with Einstein Rising, serving as an inspiration to others, and making a significant contribution to their industry or community.

The post Einstein Rising, OVO to Equip Entrepreneurs for Investment Success at the 8th Annual Kampala Impact Day appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

“We’re delighted to welcome Raenest back as our headline partner for the seventh edition of ATS Nairobi,” said Andrew Fassnidge, Founder of Africa Tech Summit. “Our mission has always been to help ventures across the continent and beyond connect and scale, and Raenest’s commitment to empowering African businesses to manage global financial operations aligns perfectly with this.”

The seventh edition of Africa Tech Summit Nairobi which will powered by Raenest, will take place from February 12th to 13th, 2025, at the Sarit Expo Centre and is expected to gather over 2,000 industry leaders, corporates, investors and international delegation across Africa and globally.

Victor Alde, CEO and Co-Founder of Raenest sharing his thoughts on the renewed partnership, said, “We are thrilled to continue as the headline sponsor of Africa Tech Summit Nairobi. This platform is pivotal in celebrating African innovation and connecting the continent to the global economy.” He added “At Raenest, our vision is to empower African businesses and professionals by simplifying how they manage and move money globally.”

Raenest continues to redefine global financial management for African businesses and freelancers, providing innovative solutions that simplify cross-border transactions. Through its flagship platform, Geegpay, African professionals can easily open virtual USD, GBP, and EUR bank accounts, enabling them to receive payments from clients worldwide.

“With Raenest and Geegpay, we’re not just creating financial solutions, we’re building a bridge that enables Africa’s entrepreneurs, freelancers, and startups to thrive on the global stage,” Alde said in a press statement. “Being part of this summit allows us to amplify our impact and further support Africa’s dynamic tech ecosystem.”

Following the success of the past events, Africa Tech Summit Nairobi 2025 will feature four key track themes: Africa Money & DeFi Summit, Africa Climate Tech & Investment Summit, Africa Startup Summit, and the Africa Mobile & App Summit.

The summit will deliver a packed agenda of fireside chats, panel discussions, keynote addresses, and masterclass sessions, creating a platform for knowledge sharing and networking.

The event will also feature Africa Tech Summit Awards to celebrate outstanding achievements across the ecosystem. In addition, the Investment Showcase will be featured as well to connect startups with leading African and global investors.

Last year’s event saw a record 1,750 delegates and 800 companies from 64 countries convene, cementing Africa Tech Summit Nairobi one of the most vibrant and energetic cornerstone events of the African tech ecosystem.

The post Nigerian Fintech, Raenest Returns as Headline Sponsor for Africa Tech Summit Nairobi 2025 appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

One possible explanation for the postponement is regulatory challenges. Moses Watasa, the Commissioner for Information and Communication at the Ministry of ICT while speaking at 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 said in addition to the ongoing fiber installation across the country spearheaded by the National Information Technology Authority (NITA) Uganda, the government is exploring satellite technology to improve connectivity in the country.

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

While this demonstrates the government’s acknowledgment of satellite technology’s potential, it establishes a series of questions about where Starlink stands in Uganda’s overall vision of connectivity. It is unknown whether the government will work with Elon Musk’s Starlink or will create its satellite internet constellation.

Starlink, SpaceX’s growing constellation of orbital satellites has already established a presence in over 100 countries including 15 African nations. The aim is to provide high-speed internet access, by utilizing a constellation of low Earth orbit satellites to deliver broadband internet coverage across the planet; essentially, making reliable internet available anywhere on Earth, including places with limited or no existing infrastructure.

The 15 African nations where Starlink is present include; Benin, Botswana, Burundi, Eswatini, Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. In this context, the Uganda delay is striking in comparison to this rapid growth, especially in light of the continued connectivity issues in Uganda.

High internet access cost is still a serious problem in Uganda. To this response, the government has already announced a plan to cut internet rates by at least one-third–and up to half–by January 2025. This ambitious goal relies heavily on expanding fiber-optic infrastructure. Nevertheless, broadband satellite internet services such as Starlink may provide an ancillary utility to support these initiatives by meeting connectivity needs in locations where the deployment of fiber is impractical, bridging the gap in the country’s digital divide, and improving education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

Although fiber-optic networks are the backbone for long-term connectivity solutions, satellite networks, such as Starlink, provide another option for reaching remote locations, quickly and more readily. To effectively tackle Uganda’s internet needs, it will be of paramount importance to develop a balance between these two technologies.

The postponement of Starlink’s availability to 2025 adds uncertainty to Uganda’s internet accessibility goals. However, the government’s commitment to lowering costs and extending connectivity to remote regions remains a silver lining. Whether through local ISPs, expanded fiber networks, or eventual satellite solutions, the hope is for a more inclusive digital future for all Ugandans.

While Starlink will revolutionize connectivity, especially in underserved and remote areas, the service’s affordability in low-income countries like Uganda remains a hot topic of debate. Starlink’s hardware setup currently costs around USD$599 (approx. UGX2.3M), with a monthly subscription fee of USD$120 (approx. UGX450,000) and USD$140 (approx. UGX520,000) for personal and business respectively. While this pricing is competitive in developed regions with robust economies, it poses significant challenges for individuals and businesses in low-income countries.

According to available data, Uganda’s average monthly income is estimated at USD$200 (approx. UGX750,000), meaning Starlink’s monthly subscription fee alone takes 60% of one’s earnings. Therefore, consumers who can’t solely afford the service can alleviate financial burdens through sharing models, where multiple households share one Starlink connection.

Scaling Starlink in lower-income countries could encourage SpaceX to introduce region-specific pricing, aligning costs with local economies.

Today, Ugandans including businesses are opting to use fiber internet, which is somewhat affordable considering the competitiveness in the market. Companies offering fiber internet include MTN, Airtel, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, Simba Telecom, Zuku, CanalBox, Savanna, etc.

Fiber offers several advantages, including higher speeds, greater bandwidth, and longer transmission distances. It enables faster data transfer and greater bandwidth, which is essential for businesses relying on data-intensive applications.

Research from Hewlett-Packard (HP Inc.) revealed that businesses utilizing fiber internet enjoy upload speeds up to 20 times faster than those relying on cable internet. This significant speed advantage yields substantial productivity and efficiency gains, enabling companies to handle large data transfers, host smooth video conferences, and support multiple users concurrently.

The residential sector is also witnessing a significant shift towards fiber internet driven by the growing demand for high-speed internet for streaming, gaming, and remote work, to mention a few without lag/interruption. As more traditional homes turn into smart homes, fiber provides the stability to support multiple smart devices connected to the house.

The escalating demand for high-speed internet and reliable connections has propelled fiber optic technology to the forefront. With its exceptional speed and unwavering dependability, fiber optic technology surpasses traditional copper cables. With the introduction of satellite internet services, internet connectivity will shift significantly.

The post Starlink Adjusts Uganda Launch Plans to 2025 appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

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.

The post The 3rd National ICT Job Fair Concludes Successfully appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Five outstanding fintech startups—Fido, Kawu, PayTota, PesaJet, and Zimba Technologies—were nominated for the Fintech Startup of the Year award. Each nominee represents a beacon of innovation addressing diverse challenges in financial inclusion, accessibility, and digital efficiency. Their efforts underscore the role of technology in driving economic growth and empowering communities across the country.

Of the five nominees, only two emerged victorious in the prestigious Fintech Startup of the Year category. Kawu clinched the coveted Diamond award, earning the top spot with its groundbreaking contributions to financial services.

“This recognition underscores our commitment to revolutionizing financial inclusion for students in Uganda. By providing digital debit cards and innovative financial solutions, we empower students to manage their finances securely and efficiently,” Kawu wrote in a post on their LinkedIn page. “This award motivates us to continue our mission of enhancing financial literacy and inclusion among the youth.”

Meanwhile, PayTota was awarded the Gold, recognizing its exceptional advancements in the sector.

“We are incredibly honored to receive this award,” said Erasmus Okurut, CoFounder and CEO of PayTota “This accolade is a testament to the hard work and ingenuity of our talented team, as well as the trust and support of our customers. We remain dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of payments.”

The awards were presented by Hon. Joyce Nabbosa Ssebugwawo, Minister of State for ICT, who commended both winners for their transformative role in Africa’s digital economy.

In addition to the startup awards, the Fintech of the Year accolade was awarded to ClinicPesa, a platform making waves in healthcare financing. In a post on LinkedIn, ClinicPesa wrote, “Proud to be recognized as FinTech of the year with a diamond award at the Digital Impact Awards Africa 2024 by HiPipo. Huge thanks to our team for revolutionizing healthcare financing. The journey continues”

ClinicPesa provides a lifeline to individuals and families by enabling them to save and access affordable healthcare services. This innovation has bridged a crucial gap, ensuring healthcare inclusivity for underserved populations. Hon. Ssebugwawo also presented this award, lauding ClinicPesa for its invaluable contributions to the health and financial sectors.

The achievements celebrated at the 2024 Digital Impact Awards Africa are a testament to fintech’s power to solve real-world challenges.

Kawu has built a finance and payment solution for students. They have developed a smart card that students use to receive money from their parents for upkeep. PayTota on the other hand is an online payment gateway solution that allows individuals and businesses to make and accept payments from local and international buyers and sellers with payment facilitators such as Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) like MTN Mobile Money and Airtel Money, Banks, and Payment Cards Operators like Visa and Mastercard.

ClinicPesa’s recognition highlights the cross-sectoral potential of fintech. By integrating finance with healthcare, the platform exemplifies how technology can address critical gaps in essential services.

The HiPipo Digital Impact Awards Africa has become a cornerstone event for celebrating excellence in digital innovation. By recognizing startups like Kawu, PayTota, and ClinicPesa, the awards inspire entrepreneurs to push boundaries and drive meaningful change.

In closing remarks, Hon. Ssebugwawo reechoed the government’s commitment to achieving last-mile digital and financial inclusion noting that digitization if well used will cure most of Uganda’s problems mainly poverty and unemployment.

Full list of winners of the 2024 Digital Impact Awards Africa (here)

The post Kawu, PayTota and ClinicPesa Triumph at the HiPipo’s 2024 Digital Impact Awards Africa appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.