Although Uganda launched her digital transformation agenda last year, Uganda’s low uptake and penetration of smartphones in the country is affecting the digital transformation agenda Uganda Communication Commission (UCC), Executive Director Nyombi Thembo has revealed.
According to Nyombi only 22% of Ugandans own smartphones, which makes it very difficult to fully drive the country into the digital agenda.
Nyombi says there are even still challenges relating to those who own smartphones, although data uptake is going up with 36 million sim cards reported to be in active usage as of 2023.
The ICT Ministry in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) last year launched the Digital Transformation Roadmap which aims at strengthening the implementation of enabling policies and laws to accelerate Uganda’s Digital Revolution.
The roadmap also aims to provide an overarching implementation framework for a well-connected Uganda that delivers on the opportunities presented by various technologies.
“Our decision to host this symposium goes beyond mere ceremony but underscores our commitment to the work of the International Telecommunication Union where we are a member,” Nyombi said.
The State Minister for National Guidance Godfrey Kabbyanga says government is increasing funding the ICT sector to ensure an increase in connectivity to be able to drive growth.
“The government commitment via digital transformation program and commitment to ensure the independence of an ICT regulator is crucial in driving progress in Uganda’s ICT sector. Uganda is globally known for hospitality,” he said.
Uganda’s is preparing to host Global Symposium for Regulators 2024 (GSR-24) which officials anticipate the GSR-24 will be hosted in Uganda between July 1 and 4 and will attract over 700 players in the ICT sector including; policymakers, regulators, representatives from industry, academia, and international and regional organizations in the field of digital development.
