To integrate Uganda’s market vendors into the digital economy, the start of transformative digital skills initiative has kicked off at the National ICT Innovation Hub targeting to train 800 participants over the next four weeks.
This initiative, a collaborative endeavor by the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, Huawei Technologies (U) Limited, MTN Foundation, and Centenary Technology Services, aims to equip local vendors with crucial digital skills, enhancing their business operations and enabling economic self-sufficiency.
Amos Mpungu, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, noted the initiative’s alignment with the National Digital Transformation Roadmap during the launch. “This program is a pivotal component of our broader strategy to digitize all sectors of our economy, ensuring that every citizen is equipped to participate in and benefit from the digital world,” he said. “By empowering our vendors, we are working toward realizing this vision.”
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The National Digital Transformation Roadmap launched in August 2023 by Vice President, Jessica Alupo outlines critical areas for development, including digital literacy, access to digital tools, and the creation of digital opportunities in rural and urban areas. Therefore, this skilling initiative directly supports the roadmap’s objectives by focusing on practical, skills-based training for vendors in Nakawa, one of the bustling commercial hubs of the city.
Nick Yang Cheng, Public Relations Officer of Huawei Technologies (U) Limited, expressed enthusiasm about their partnership. “At Huawei, we understand the transformative power of technology. Our collaboration in this program ensures that the latest digital tools and training methods are accessible to those who stand to benefit most.”
Meanwhile, the MTN Foundation, a corporate social responsibility arm of MTN Group has pledged its continued support for digital education initiatives across Uganda. Nelson Munyanda, Manager of MTN Uganda Foundation, emphasized the program’s role in community development noting, “Through MTN ACE, MTN Foundation is committed to fostering sustainable community growth. By supporting this skilling initiative, we help market vendors survive and thrive in the digital economy.”
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Centenary Technology Services will be managing the program’s implementation and anticipates significant outcomes. Steven Kirenga, General Manager of Product and Business Development at Centenary Technology Services, said they aim to transform market operations so vendors can increase their earnings and improve their lives. “This initiative is about turning potential into prosperity,” remarked Kirenga.
Participants in the training will learn to manage mobile payments, utilize digital marketing techniques, and streamline inventory management through digital solutions. This will enhance their operational efficiency, profitability, and market competitiveness.
At the end of the training, there will be a graduation ceremony, celebrating the participants’ achievements and marking their readiness to engage in the digital economy. This event will highlight the transformative impacts of their new skills on both their lives and the broader community.
Interested vendors and individuals aspiring to elevate their digital skills are called to take on the program. The training will be held at the National ICT Innovation Hub in Nakawa.
