The ICT Association of Uganda (ICTAU) was hosted on UBC’s “The Extra” morning show, where they discussed, among other things, the nation’s digital transformation progress, the critical role of technology across sectors, and setting the stage for the pivotal Second ICT National Summit later this month. The association was represented by its CEO, Gideon Nkurunungi, and Flavia Kyeyago Ouma, Secretariat Member in charge of public and private partnerships.
During the discussion, both underscored the urgency outlined in Uganda’s Digital Transformation Roadmap (2023-2028), a government self-critical blueprint targeting 90% broadband access, online government services, and citizen connectivity by 2040. Nkurunungi revealed that Uganda’s ambitious digital transformation faces a stark reality check: just 28% of its 45 million citizens have internet access, and only 12 million use smartphones. This critical connectivity gap is hindering access to essential services and economic opportunity.
“Internet penetration in Uganda is at 28%. It means that largely our population is not online and they cannot access key services by the government that they pay taxes for,” said Nkurunungi. He pointed to limited last-mile connectivity and smartphone affordability as major barriers. However, he highlighted progress: booming online platform usage, over US$200 billion in capital investment attracted to the sector, and Ugandan startups raising US$18 million. “Uganda is growing, but there is still much more to do,” he stated, emphasizing the roadmap’s role as the crucial guide through its “apex years.”
In the course of the discussion, Nkurunungi delivered a stark warning on the ICT sector funding: “The ICT sector is poorly funded, receiving only 0.5% of the national budget,” he noted. “The sector received UGX835.98 billion specifically for Science, Technology, and Innovation, inclusive of ICT and the creative arts in the recent budget, compared to roads at UGX4 trillion,” Nkurunungi added, calling on the government to allocate at least UGX5 trillion to the sector.
Nkurunungi also contested the Finance Minister’s claim of 53% internet penetration, linking it to chronic underfunding. “ICT might get money from other areas, but the budget was read to show ICT received 0.5%. We are the second-largest job creator, next to agriculture. Therefore, let us receive an appropriate allocation.”
Central to accelerating the digital transformation progress is the upcoming 2nd National ICT Summit, scheduled for July 17-18, 2025, at the National ICT Innovation Hub. Hosted by ICTAU in partnership with the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, the summit is positioned as the key platform to accelerate this transformation under the theme “Harnessing Digital Innovation for Sustainable Economic Growth.” It aims to bridge the critical gap between policy and practical implementation.
“Uganda has been known for creating many policies,” said Kyeyago. “Can we move from policy to action?” She added, “We are talking about the Digital Transformation Roadmap. How far have we gone? The summit aims to shift ‘beyond inspiration’ to connect policy with execution, mobilize partnerships, and showcase tangible ICT innovations driving sectors like agriculture, education, health, and BPO to accelerate uptake from local to global.”
With most Ugandans reliant on agriculture, its digital transformation is vital. Kyeyago previewed summit demonstrations: weather and climate monitoring apps combating unpredictable rains, crop and disease surveillance tools, market access platforms, drone-based field monitoring, IoT soil sensors, and smart irrigation systems. “I encourage all farmers, please come. You can pick an idea. You never know, you can also be able to innovate,” she urged, highlighting companies like ABI Development and PSFU Farmers set to exhibit.
Both guests championed Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) as a critical youth employment driver. “BPO is a significant platform to address youth unemployment, connecting Ugandans to ICT jobs worldwide while staying in their communities,” stated Kyeyago. Adding to her remarks, Nkurunungi said the established regional ICT hubs enable digital trade and remote work, allowing citizens to participate in the global economy locally: “Don’t leave Lira to come to Kampala. Stay there, trade abroad via the internet – it’s possible,” he said.
Nkurunungi added that the 2nd ICT National Summit will actively showcase BPO’s potential as a major job creator, linking talent in regions across Uganda to international markets.
See also: ICT State Minister, Joyce Ssebugwawo announces a BPO and Innovation Council to tackle unemployment
The association issued passionate invitations to the summit, targeting innovators, entrepreneurs, students, farmers, government officials, investors, and tech professionals. “Come network, meet your next client and discover what we can do as Uganda,” urged Kyeyago, promising an “innovation tracker” publication and regional hub expansion initiatives.
As Uganda stands at a digital crossroads, the 2nd ICT National Summit represents more than a conference. It’s a test of the nation’s ability to translate its self-critical roadmap into measurable action, bridge the connectivity chasm holding back its citizens, and unlock the economic potential its young, tech-savvy population promises. The passionate plea from its ICT leaders is clear: greater investment and concerted effort are non-negotiable for a truly “Digital Uganda.”
