By Felix Oketcho
The Ministry of ICT & National Guidance and the dfcu Foundation have today entered a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating digital skilling, innovation, and enterprise transformation across Uganda. This collaboration unites government leadership with private sector expertise to equip entrepreneurs, youth, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), women-led enterprises, and community organizations with the tools and skills needed to thrive in today’s technology-driven economy.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, both institutions emphasized the importance of collaborative action in achieving Uganda’s digital ambitions. The Ministry, which drives the national digital agenda, offers a nationwide network of Innovation Hubs that will serve as key enablers for the partnership. These hubs are vital centers for digital
training, mentorship, creativity, and community engagement. Through this partnership,the hubs will deliver even greater value, driving enterprise growth with advanced technologies, practical digital skills, and tailored resources.
dfcu Group, through the dfcu Foundation and dfcu Bank, complement this national platform by contributing equipment, capacity-building expertise, and a longstanding commitment to enterprise development. dfcu Bank has pledged computers to support
the National ICT Innovation Hub under the Ministry, enabling young innovators,entrepreneurs, and emerging digital professionals to access reliable tools for learning and business development.
dfcu Foundation, through its Business Acceleration Program, will partner with the Ministry to co-create digital and enterprise training covering areas like financial literacy, business formalization, governance, and leadership. Together, they aim to bridge digital gaps, fuel enterprise growth, and drive inclusive economic participation.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT & National Guidance underscored the national importance of the initiative.
“Our Innovation Hubs were established to nurture Uganda’s digital talent and expand access to ICT services.
This partnership with the dfcu Foundation strengthens our ability to deliver on that mandate by expanding equipment, training, and real-world enterprise support. When the government and the private sector move together, we move the country forward.”
Representing the dfcu Foundation, the Executive Director highlighted the shared purpose behind the partnership. “This collaboration is grounded in mutual respect and
complementary strengths. The Ministry provides a robust national platform through its innovation hubs, while dfcu brings tools, enterprise support, and deep experience with SMEs, farmers, women, and youth. Together, we are shaping a future where every Ugandan can thrive in the digital economy.”
Helena Mayanja, Head of Corporate Affairs & Sustainability at dfcu Bank, noted that the Bank’s contribution reflects its long-standing role as a partner in Uganda’s progress.
“This initiative reaffirms dfcu Bank’s commitment to building a stronger, more prosperous, and sustainable Uganda. By equipping the Ministry’s Innovation Hubs with computers, we are helping ensure that digital transformation reaches communities across the country, not only those in urban centers.”
“Technology creates real impact when it enables innovators, entrepreneurs, and young people to build resilient businesses, strengthen livelihoods, and create long-term
opportunities for themselves and their communities. Through this partnership, we are proud to advance Uganda’s vision for a digitally skilled, inclusive, and sustainable economy,” she added.
The partnership will expand digital skilling through the Ministry’s Innovation Hubs, improve access to enterprise development, and extend digital literacy to grassroots entrepreneurs. It will also advance national efforts to prepare Ugandans for opportunities in e-commerce, digital finance, innovation, and ICT-driven business.
As the ceremony closed, both partners reaffirmed their shared vision for Uganda’s digital future. The Executive Director of the dfcu Foundation concluded, “This partnership unites the strengths of government and private sector with one shared goal:to unleash digital transformation and foster sustainable businesses in Uganda.”
