By Mark Kawalya
The National Information Technology Authority-Uganda (NITA-U) has handed over the operations of the National Backbone Infrastructure and e-Government Infrastructure (NBI/EGI) to the newly formed Uganda Telecommunications Corporation Limited (UTCL), also known as Utel. The transfer is a directive from President Museveni, is part of a larger effort to rejuvenate the nation’s telecommunications landscape.
The NBI, an important national asset, consists of a network of fiber optic cables that link government offices and form the backbone of Uganda’s digital infrastructure. The transfer will allow the government to leverage private sector expertise and investment to further develop and expand the network. This move is expected to significantly improve connectivity and access to digital services for all Ugandans.
The NBI was established in multiple phases, funded by the Chinese Export-Import (EXIM) Bank and the World Bank. It has been instrumental in connecting government agencies and enabling the delivery of e-government services. The handover from NITA-U to UTCL marks a new chapter in the development of the NBI. It has the potential to accelerate the expansion of broadband services and enhance digital inclusion across the country.
However, the transition of the NBI to UTCL is not without its challenges. The new company will need to navigate the competitive telecommunications market and ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of the infrastructure. Despite these challenges, the potential benefits are substantial. With its extensive network and strong government backing, UTCL is well-positioned to become a key player in the Ugandan telecommunications industry, driving innovation and improving access to affordable and reliable internet services.
Transferring the management of the NBI from NITA-U to UTCL represents a significant milestone in Uganda’s journey towards digital transformation. It demonstrates the government’s commitment to leveraging technology to drive economic growth, enhance service delivery, and improve the quality of life for its citizens.
As UTCL takes control of the NBI, the country can look forward to a more connected and digitally empowered future. This handover is expected to bring about substantial improvements in Uganda’s digital infrastructure. By drawing on private sector expertise, the government aims to foster a more robust and innovative telecommunications environment.
