By Mark Kawalya
The Ministry for ICT and National Guidance has unveiled the launch of Uganda’s digital transformation roadmap, a tool that will provide a framework for the nation’s technology landscape over the years to come.
The roadmap, which promises to shift the course of Uganda’s digital trajectory, will be unveiled at the Kampala Serena Hotel on August 17, 2023.
Dr. Aminah Zawedde, the Permanent Secretary of the ICT Ministry, while speaking to journalists, articulated the government’s vision of extending the benefits of digital services to every Ugandan, regardless of their geographical and socio-economic status.
With a promising 14.8% average annual growth rate, Uganda’s ICT sector contributes a sizeable 9% to the GDP. “The Ugandan ICT sector is not merely a subset of our economic landscape; it is the driving force behind our nation’s socio-economic growth,” Zawedde noted.
These successes are a result of deliberate policy decisions, the expansion of infrastructure, and the unwavering dedication of individuals who have tirelessly worked to accelerate internet penetration and the introduction of e-services.
The transformational power of ICT is recognized by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), which indicates that a mere 10% rise in broadband penetration can be the catalyst for a considerable 1.4% growth in a nation’s GDP.
With this insight, Uganda’s digital transformation roadmap is designed to provide a structured framework for the next five years, that details actionable steps and attainable milestones.
This approach not only fosters a strong foundation for digital ambitions but also ensures adaptability to accommodate future technologies. Dr. Zawedde highlighted the importance of digitizing government procurement processes using Electronic Government Procurement systems, which curb human errors, inefficiencies, and corruption.
“While our Digital Uganda Vision sets the aspirational goals in alignment with our overarching Vision 2040, this roadmap lays out the concrete steps, the key enablers, and the milestones we aim to achieve over the next five years,” said Zawedde.
By embracing transparency driven by ICT, the government will ensure rigorous accountability for every taxpayer’s contribution. Additionally, economic competitiveness is a cornerstone of this roadmap, which is aimed at cultivating a resilient digital economy that can globally compete, attract investments, foster innovation, and generate sustainable employment opportunities for the youth.
