In a landmark recognition of Uganda’s digital transformation efforts, Dr. Aminah Zawedde, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, has been awarded the prestigious International Computer Driving License (ICDL) Africa Recognition Award 2024 for her exceptional contributions to digital advancement in the region.
The ICDL Africa Award celebrates outstanding contributions to digital advancement across Africa.
The continental award, announced at the annual ICDL Africa Summit in Kigali, Rwanda, acknowledges Dr. Zawedde’s pioneering work in revolutionizing Uganda’s digital landscape and her career-long dedication to leveraging technology for social and economic transformation.
Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Zawedde has consistently championed technology as a catalyst for change. “Technology isn’t just about digital tools—it’s about transforming lives and livelihoods,” she said. “From my early days in the tech sector to my current role, I’ve witnessed firsthand how digital solutions can create tangible social and economic impact for our citizens.”
A cornerstone of Dr. Zawedde’s vision has been the digital transformation of Uganda’s public sector. Under her leadership, the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance has launched an ambitious initiative to enhance digital competencies among government employees, recognizing that a digitally skilled civil service is essential for effective e-government implementation.
“For e-government to succeed, our public servants must be digitally fluent,” Dr. Zawedde explained. “When government employees embrace digital tools, we can deliver services more efficiently, reduce bureaucracy, and bring government closer to the people.”
The ministry’s comprehensive digital skilling program for civil servants has already shown promising results: increasing the adoption of digital platforms across government departments and significantly reducing operational costs through digital automation.
Under Dr. Zawedde’s guidance, Uganda has emerged as a regional leader in digital innovation, implementing a comprehensive Digital Transformation Roadmap that has become a blueprint for other African nations. Her approach has consistently emphasized technology’s role in addressing social challenges and creating economic opportunities.
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“Dr. Zawedde’s commitment to digital transformation goes beyond infrastructure development,” said Peter Maina ICDL Africa’s Regional Director in a press statement. “She has consistently demonstrated that technology, when properly leveraged, can be a powerful tool for social inclusion and economic empowerment.”
Key achievements during her tenure include:
- Establishment of partnerships with global technology organizations to provide internationally recognized digital skills certification.
- Implementation of targeted programs to bridge the digital divide in rural communities
- Launch of initiatives specifically designed to enhance women’s and youth participation in the digital economy.
- Development of policy frameworks supporting digital innovation and technology-driven governance.
- The creation of digital one-stop centers is bringing government services closer to citizens.
The impact of these initiatives has been substantial. Under Dr. Zawedde’s guidance, Uganda has seen a significant increase in digital literacy rates, with over 1,000 citizens receiving digital skills certification in the past year alone. The ministry’s focus on digital inclusion has also led to a marked increase in technology adoption in traditionally underserved areas.
Looking ahead, Dr. Zawedde’s Ministry has outlined ambitious plans to further accelerate Uganda’s digital transformation. These include:
- Expansion of high-speed internet infrastructure to remote areas.
- Integration of digital literacy programs into formal education curricula.
- Development of innovation hubs across the country.
- Advanced digital skills training for all government employees.
- Implementation of an integrated e-government services platform.
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“Our vision is of a Uganda where every citizen, regardless of their location or background, can access government services at their fingertips,” Dr. Zawedde stated. “This requires not just technology infrastructure, but also a digitally competent civil service and an enabling policy environment.”
