Shaping Uganda’s Digital Future: Ministry of ICT Advances Technology Strategy During NRM Manifesto Week

The Ministry of ICT and National Guidance has reaffirmed its commitment to guiding Uganda’s technology strategy and advancing the country’s digital transformation. Speaking during the NRM Manifesto Week conference held in Kampala, State Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Godfrey Kabyanga, alongside Permanent Secretary Dr. Amina Zawedde, outlined the ministry’s achievements, sector performance, and future plans.

Milestones in ICT Development

They highlighted the ministry’s significant strides in ICT development, emphasizing improvements in network infrastructure and internet accessibility. Key achievements include:

Expanding ICT Networks: The ministry has increased ICT network coverage, with mobile signal coverage now reaching over 89% of the population and broadband covering 85%.

Reduced Internet Costs: The unit cost of internet has dropped from $70 to $38 per Mbps, making it more affordable for Ugandans.

Enhanced Fiber Infrastructure: A total of 33,000 km of fiber optic cable has been laid, with an additional 4,387 km added in recent years.

Improved Connectivity: The establishment of 5,064 communication towers and 17 broadband towers in regions like Amuru, Kaabong, and Kitagwenda has significantly boosted communication services.

Rising Subscriptions: Uganda now boasts 4.5 million fixed-line subscriptions, with 37 million active mobile subscriptions.

Digital TV and Radio Expansion: There are currently 48 TV stations, 301 radio stations, and five pay-TV service providers operating across the country.

Advancing Digital Transformation

The Ministry has prioritized digitalization and innovation in government services and beyond:

Digital Government Services: Over 62% of government services are now offered electronically through platforms such as the electronic government procurement system and the UGhub data integration platform.

ICT Labs in Schools: The ministry has established ICT laboratories in 1,400 public secondary schools and tertiary institutions to enhance digital literacy.

Digital Skilling: Over 1,694 individuals have been equipped with basic ICT skills to bridge the digital divide.

National ICT Innovation Hub: Located in Nakawa, the hub supports over 500 innovators, while grants have been awarded to 132 innovators to advance digital solutions.

ICT Parks: The government has secured land in Entebbe for an ICT park, with feasibility studies already completed.

Sector Performance Highlights

The ministry’s focus on increasing network coverage has yielded remarkable results:

Mobile Signal Coverage: Currently stands at 89%.

Broadband Coverage: Reaches 85% of the population.

Fixed Line Services: Uganda has 139,000 fixed-line subscriptions.

3G and 4G Coverage: Coverage stands at 72% and 55%, respectively.

Addressing Challenges

While significant progress has been made, the ministry continues to face several challenges:

1. Automation Gaps: The automation of government systems and processes remains slow, with numerous standalone systems persisting across ministries.
2. ICT Uptake: Adoption of ICT tools and systems across the country is still inadequate.
3. Infrastructure Support: Limited complementary utilities, such as electricity, hinder ICT infrastructure deployment.
4. Budget Constraints: Budget cuts and insufficient funding have slowed execution of planned projects.

Safeguarding Journalists’ Rights

Hon. Kabyanga pledged the ministry’s support for journalists, emphasizing the need to protect them from workplace hazards such as physical assaults during political gatherings and exploitation by employers. The ministry aims to address these issues to ensure a safer and more conducive working environment for media professionals.

A Vision for the Future

The Ministry of ICT and National Guidance is committed to sustaining its efforts to transform Uganda into a digitally empowered society. Dr. Zawedde emphasized the importance of partnerships with academia, citing collaborations with Makerere University as an example of how innovation can drive progress.

The ministry’s comprehensive strategy, including rationalizing ICT laws, fostering digital innovation, and ensuring affordable access to technology, underscores its determination to make Uganda a leader in ICT development in the region.

As the digital landscape evolves, the ministry remains resolute in addressing challenges and leveraging opportunities to create a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable ICT ecosystem for all Ugandans.