Today, Uganda joined other countries worldwide in commemorating Safer Internet Day, a global initiative aimed at fostering a safer and more responsible digital environment. As internet usage continues to surge across the nation, this year’s theme of “Together for a Better Internet” resonates deeply with Ugandan stakeholders, who are rallying to address growing concerns around cybersecurity, data privacy, and the protection of vulnerable users, particularly children.
The day which highlights the need for awareness, vigilance, and collective action in safeguarding our digital spaces was marked by a high-profile event organized by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) in partnership with the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and civil society groups. The event was officiated by the State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Hon. Dr. Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi.
“I am honored to participate in the Global Safe Internet Day. As part of the global community, I’m proud to join forces in promoting online safety and responsibility where blackmailers and scammers must be stopped,” said Hon. Balaam.
In his address, the State Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Kabbyanga Godfrey Baluku, underscored the government’s commitment to creating a secure digital ecosystem. “A safer internet is a collective responsibility,” he said. “By working with government, industry players, schools, and families, we can create a digital environment that upholds trust, security, and well-being for all.”
Hon. Kabbyanga highlighted Uganda’s progress in enacting key laws including the Data Protection and Privacy Act (2019) and the Computer Misuse Act (2011), which provide legal safeguards against online harassment, identity theft, and unauthorized data sharing. These laws are particularly critical in protecting children, who constitute a significant portion of Uganda’s rapidly growing internet user base. They are also designed not only to punish offenders but also to empower citizens with the right to privacy and recourse in case of violations.
Dr. Abudu Sallam Waiswa the Division Head of Legal and Litigation at UCC called on the public to take pride in bullying other people on the Internet.
Uganda’s ambitious Digital Transformation Roadmap—a blueprint for advancing the nation’s tech ecosystem—was also spotlighted as a cornerstone of these efforts. The roadmap prioritizes cybersecurity, data protection, and privacy to ensure robust security measures and protect citizens’ data and privacy in the digital space to remain “safe, inclusive, and trusted” as more Ugandans embrace e-government services, mobile banking, and online learning.
As we push for universal internet access, we cannot overlook the risks that come with connectivity. The roadmap integrates advanced cybersecurity infrastructure, public awareness campaigns, and partnerships with private sector actors to mitigate these challenges.
See also: ITU Secretary-General, Doreen Bogdan-Martin applauds Uganda’s digital transformation roadmap
While legal and policy frameworks lay the foundation, Hon. Kabbyanga has called on individual users to adopt responsible digital habits. He cautioned against sharing personal information online, clicking suspicious links, and engaging with unverified sources—practices that expose users to scams, financial fraud, and malware.
“Cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated. Always verify information before sharing it, use strong passwords, and report threats immediately to authorities like the UCC or the Cyber Crime Unit,” he advised.
The Safer Internet Day event also featured panel discussions from different stakeholders who also pitched in to raise awareness and promote safe and responsible use of the Internet, especially for children and young people. Schools are urged to integrate digital literacy into curricula, while parents are encouraged to monitor their children’s online activities and engage in open conversations about potential risks.
With an estimated 27.7 million internet subscriptions and 13.3 million smartphone penetration (as of June 2023, per UCC)—the focus on safety is more urgent than ever. While challenges like misinformation, disinformation, fake news, cyberbullying, and financial scams persist, stakeholders remain optimistic that sustained collaboration will yield tangible results.
Safer Internet Day serves as a timely reminder that every user—from policymakers to parents—has a role to play in shaping a secure digital future. As Hon. Kabbyanga aptly concluded, he applauded UCC for organizing the event noting that it (event) is a testament to the Commission’s commitment to the cause of consumer protection, which is commendable.
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To mark the day, Ugandans are encouraged to participate in ongoing online safety workshops and report cybercrimes to the Police’s Cyber Crime Unit. Dr. Abudu Sallam Waiswa the Division Head of Legal and Litigation at UCC also urged the public to feel free and share their experiences and proposals on safe internet use.
By staying informed and proactive, the nation can harness the internet’s vast potential while minimizing its risks—a vision worth striving for, not just today, but every day.
