State of ICTs and Local Governance, Needs Analysis and Research Priorities in Uganda

The National ICT Policy Framework (2002) is intended to stimulate more participation in the socio-economic-political and other developmental  activities, so as to lead to improved standards of living for the majority of Ugandans and enhance sustainable national development.

Other ICT issues currently being considered in the formulation of ICT strategies are the recommendations of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), The proceedings of the African Development Forum and ICT strategy for the achievement of the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

E-governance can only be implemented effectively if the right human resource, software and systems are in place and the citizens are ICT literate and sensitized.

There is need to do undertake research in appropriate technology (software) that is free or affordable, ICTs for the marginalized groups like the disabled, the illiterate, and ICTs for rural transformation.

It also important to research on how ICTs can effectively transform the agricultural sector in  Uganda and increase household  income.

This will involve implementation of large-scale projects, which calls for research in areas such as perceptions/ failures of information system projects to minimize project failures.

There is also need to undertake research on how ICTs can improve health service delivery especially among the poor.