Connecting the world and beyond

Government of Uganda and ITU joint project on "Technical assistance and training to Uganda on National ICT development strategy"

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Building capacity towards Uganda’s transformation into a digitally ​enabled society and knowledge economy


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Impact of the project: 


The objective of this project is to contribute to​ a strengthened ICT policy and regulatory environment to enable Uganda to continue transformation into a digitally enabled society that is innovative and competitive.
Read the ITU #DigitalImpactUnlocked stories on the project - Towards a digitally enabled Uganda and Uganda strengthens digital competitiveness through international ICT partnership​​
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Background: 


The Digital Uganda Vision (DUV) Is a National Policy and Strategic Framework that reviews, integrates, consolidates, and improves all the existing ICT strategies, policies and plans into one overarching Digital Vision for Uganda by providing a unified direction for ICT development and an Integrated ICT project implementation approach.
The principal aim of Digital Uganda Vision is to align ICT investments in the various sectors in a manner that will improve the country’s global ICT indices for purposes of attracting investors. 
The goal of the Third National Development Plan (NDP III) is to increase household incomes and improve the quality of life of Ugandans. To ensure inclusive development, the NDP III has adopted the Human Rights Based Approach (HRBA) with specific attention to the human rights principles of equality and non-discrimination, empowerment and participation and attention to vulnerable groups.

In 2019, Uganda’s progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) was ranked 140 out of 162 countries with a global index score of 52.6 per cent declining from 125th position out of 156 Countries in 2018. According to the SDG global index, Uganda’s achievement is average, with moderate performance on SDGs 3, 8, 9, 13 and 15. SDGs 2, 5 and 6 have stagnated and the Country is off track in achieving SDG 1, 11, and 16. There are also information gaps, with official data available on only 46.3% for SDG indicators applicable to the country context. This project supports the implementation of SDG9 (Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation) and with its focus on supporting digital transformtion has the potential to contribute to accelerating progress on the other SDGs.​


Areas of work: 


In line with the Third National Development Plan (NDPIII) and Digital Uganda Vision (DUV) framework, the project lays a foundation for ICT policy and planning with a focus on promoting the integration of ICT with other vertical industries in Uganda and driving the digital transformation of trade, government, education, health and other areas, and promoting employment and sustainable development. 

Applying a three-pronged approach focused on the development of recommendations, capacity development and the implementation of pilot projects, the project contributes towards the implementation of a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy and to transform Uganda into a digitally enabled society that is innovative, productive, and competitive. Through its interventions, the project further seeks to assist in the development of internet connectivity in the country and the resiliency of such networks and boost related opportunities to contribute to sustainable social and economic development. The project also assists the Government of Uganda in strengthening the enabling ICT policy and regulatory environment and to contribute to making ICT services affordable and accessible for all Ugandans.

Approach: ​​
The project is delivered under the following three components, which are mutually reinforcing: ​
​Component 1 – Policy and strategy recommendations 
Component 2 – Cross-cutting capacity development 
Component 3 – Design and implementation of pilot projects and use cases to support the recommendations

​The policy and strategy recommendations are the following and will be organized under the pertinent DUV pillars: Digital Infrastructure and Connectivity
  (1) Recommendations on review of national broadband plan, including the monitoring and evaluation framework 
  (2) Recommendations on 5G and spectrum management strategy and implementation plan
​  (3) Recommendations on the development of international communication networks 
  (4) Recommendations on the development of national backbone transmission network, including data center strategy
  (5) Recommendations for last mile connectivity and infrastructure, including for rural and remote areas
  (6) Recommendations for big data development​
Digital Services
  (7) Recommendations on the development of telecommunication universal services in rural and remote areas and their diffusion in critical sectors, e.g. education.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
  (8) Recommendations for Uganda’s ICT industry development policies, including on e-waste

Partners: 
  • ​The Government of Uganda through the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance as the lead agency. 
  • The Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund (GDSSCF), previously called South-South Cooperation Assistance Fund (SSCAF), is providing financial support with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) of the People’s Republic of China as its representative partner within the project. 
  • The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) as the implementing partner. ​​​​​​
Project team:

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Project publications


  • T​​he reports were developed by the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance and the International Teleco​mmunication Union (ITU), with the support of Divisions and Services in ITU Headquarters and ITU Regional Office for Africa under the 'Technical Assistance and Training to Uganda on National ICT Development Strategy' project.

     

    Review of the implementation of Uganda's National Broadband Policy 2018 and proposed interventions​

    The preparation of the Review of the implementation of Uganda's National Broadband Policy 2018 and proposed interventions report has entailed carrying out a situation analysis of the broadband ecosystem in Uganda. The analysis has covered ICT contributions to gross domestic product (GDP); mobile network coverage; Internet pricing; traffic and usage patterns, both locally and globally; and assessing how Uganda is ranked among globally tracked ICT indices such as the E-Government Development Index (EGDI), the E?Participation Index, the Network Readiness Index, the GovTech Maturity Index and the Local Online Index. This was supplemented with the collection of information from stakeholders that had a stake in implementation of the 2018 National Broadband Policy. The gathered information is captured in a matrix that indicates each objective and attendant strategies, the activities undertaken to implement the strategy, as well as the outcomes of those actions, reported level of implementation by the stakeholders, challenges met in the process, and proposed mitigation measures to address them. The report shares a detailed analysis of the implementation status of the 2018 National Broadband Policy. Overall, Uganda's digital transformation is on an upward trajectory, driven by the foundational work laid under the 2018 National Broadband Policy.​​​

    Download the publication here: http://handle.itu.int/11.1002/pub/825e1f86-en

     

    Study on common utility infrastructure sharing framework and standards for ICT infrastructure along roads and crossings in Uganda

    The preparation of the Review of the implementation of Uganda's National Broadband Policy 2018 and proposed interventions report has entailed carrying out a situation analysis of the broadband ecosystem in Uganda. The analysis has covered ICT contributions to gross domestic product (GDP); mobile network coverage; Internet pricing; traffic and usage patterns, both locally and globally; and assessing how Uganda is ranked among globally tracked ICT indices such as the E-Government Development Index (EGDI), the E?Participation Index, the Network Readiness Index, the GovTech Maturity Index and the Local Online Index. This was supplemented with the collection of information from stakeholders that had a stake in implementation of the 2018 National Broadband Policy. The gathered information is captured in a matrix that indicates each objective and attendant strategies, the activities undertaken to implement the strategy, as well as the outcomes of those actions, reported level of implementation by the stakeholders, challenges met in the process, and proposed mitigation measures to address them. The report shares a detailed analysis of the implementation status of the 2018 National Broadband Policy. Overall, Uganda's digital transformation is on an upward trajectory, driven by the foundational work laid under the 2018 National Broadband Policy. ​​

    Download the publication here: http://handle.itu.int/11.1002/pub/825e1fb2-en

     

    Strategy for 5G adoption and uptake in Uganda

    The Strategy for 5G adoption and uptake in Uganda report stems from the need to address key connectivity challenges in Uganda. Although Uganda has made significant progress in expanding 3G and 4G networks, these resources remain underutilized, primarily due to low demand restrained by limited digital literacy, affordability issues and insufficient access to broadband services. This underutilization presents a substantial challenge to the economic viability of 5G investments, as the lack of a robust user base makes it difficult to justify the high costs associated with 5G deployment. In addition to infrastructure and demand challenges, some gaps in Uganda's existing regulatory framework need to be addressed to facilitate the smooth roll-out of 5G. These include the need for updated policies on spectrum management, infrastructure sharing and cybersecurity, which are essential for creating a conducive environment for 5G adoption. The successful implementation of the 5G adoption strategy will require coordinated efforts across government, industry and the broader community. By focusing on increasing demand for broadband services, addressing regulatory gaps, building local capacity and ensuring compliance with international standards, Uganda can ensure that 5G technology is deployed effectively and equitably, driving the country towards the goals of the Digital Uganda Vision. The strategy is not just a roadmap for technological advancement, it is a commitment to building a more connected, innovative and prosperous future for all Ugandans.​​

    Download the publication here: http://handle.itu.int/11.1002/pub/825df346-en

     

    Digital skills capacity building needs assessment for priority sectors in Uganda

    The Digital skills capacity building needs assessment for priority sectors in Uganda report seeks to analyse the most significant gaps in digital skills acquisition within key priority sectors in Uganda and propose training initiatives to bridge these gaps. It complements previous studies conducted by the National Information Technology Authority - Uganda (NITA-U) and the Uganda Institute of Information Communications and Technology (UICT), which identified challenges such as unharmonized deployment of ICT staff and misalignment between ICT in education, digital skills training and industry needs. As such, the digital skills needs assessment aims to identify and address the barriers related to human resources capacity among the public and private sectors, forming a critical part of the Technical Assistance and Training to Uganda on the National ICT Development Strategy project. The specific objectives of the digital skills needs assessment are to: Develop a methodology to conduct a digital skills assessment for priority sectors in Uganda, based on existing tools, including the ITU Digital Skills Assessment Guidebook, etc.; Assess current and emerging digital skills supply and demand to identify gaps and opportunities; and, Develop a capacity-building action plan for the priority sectors. The report outlines the approach, findings and recommendations for the digital skills needs assessment.

    Download the publication here: http://handle.itu.int/11.1002/pub/825e1fb4-en

     

    Assessment of last-mile connectivity interventions in Uganda

    The Assessment of last-mile connectivity interventions in Uganda report provides a comprehensive evaluation of the current state of connectivity projects, examines their ecosystems and proposes sustainable strategies for improvement. Ensuring inclusive connectivity is vital for bridging the digital divide and fostering equitable access to digital resources, which is crucial for Uganda's socio-economic development. The analysis identified key stakeholders and implementers involved in last-mile connectivity, examining the diverse models and approaches used in these projects. As such, the study assessed the usage, challenges, successes, sustainability and gaps within these projects, providing a detailed understanding of Uganda's connectivity landscape. The study highlights the need for innovative solutions to bridge this digital divide, including leveraging alternative technologies such as satellite Internet and TV white space (TVWS) to overcome geographical barriers and extend services to hard-to-reach areas. The recommendations in the report can serve as a road map for strategic interventions aimed at bridging connectivity gaps, fostering innovation and empowering communities across the country.

    Download the publication here: http://handle.itu.int/11.1002/pub/825e1fb6-en

     

    Assessment of the big data landscape in Uganda

    The Assessment of the big data landscape in Uganda report presents the results of a review Uganda's big data landscape that was undertaken 2024. In September 2023, the Government of Uganda launched the Big Data Utilization Strategy 2023-2027 to enable it to make data-driven decisions that will drive economic growth. At the same time, work was being done to develop the National Data Strategy, with elements of nascent data technologies, such as big data analytics, being promoted. The results of the assessment support the Government's implementation of the Big Data Utilization Strategy, which is aligned with Uganda's Third National Development Plan (NDP III), the Digital Uganda Vision 2040 and the complementary national Digital Transformation Roadmap 2023/24-2027/28. The assessment also contributes to the national Digital Transformation Roadmap for achieving the Digital Uganda Vision, by assessing the baseline status of available big data in the country and contributes to the implementation of Uganda's Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV). The big data development interventions proposed in the strategy involve data resource evaluation, data science capacity development and big data project pilots.​​

    Download the publication here: http://handle.itu.int/11.1002/pub/825e1fb8-en

     

    Study on scoping the existing policy and regulatory framework for the management of e-waste under extended producer responsibility in Uganda 2023

    The Study on scoping the existing policy and regulatory framework for the management of e-waste under extended producer responsibility in Uganda 2023, shares a comprehensive review of the e-waste management policies, laws and regulations, and suggests possible revisions to such texts. The existing framework for financing e-waste management is based on a model whereby the public sector finances the whole value chain. The model has demonstrated its weaknesses, and as of now, very little quantity of e-waste has been collected and recycled. The financing model must therefore be improved by creating a new model based on a financially sustainable framework with the involvement of key stakeholders - such as EEE producers (importers, distributors, manufacturers and resellers); retailers and collectors; and recycling companies - through a fair and economically viable extended producer responsibility (EPR) framework for the EEE sector.

    Download the publication here: http://handle.itu.int/11.1002/pub/828d4eaa-en

     

    Uganda national AI landscape assessment

    The Uganda national AI landscape assessment report provides a detailed account of the findings from a review undertaken in 2024. A baseline survey was conducted to identify challenges faced by key public and private actors in Uganda's AI ecosystem, including but not limited to research and development, education, governance, marketing, and deployment, mapping also the AI stakeholders in Uganda across the value chain. A benchmarking study was carried out on Rwanda and Kenya as countries that share economic similarities with Uganda and have made significant strides in creating an enabling environment providing supportive infrastructure for AI deployment and use; and on United States with well-developed AI regulatory frameworks, infrastructure and skills to ensure the findings are relevant and adaptable was selected as a relevant reference standard for this assessment. The study also shares the results of an assessment of the availability and extent of readiness of supportive infrastructure for the deployment of AI in the delivery of e-services by the Government and evaluate the existing skills in AI development, deployment and use in Government Ministries, Agencies and Departments was conducted and finally a proposed AI risk management framework was developed. ​

    Download the publication here: http://handle.itu.int/11.1002/pub/825e1ffe-en

     

    Uganda national green data center strategy and guidelines 

    The Uganda national green data center strategy and guidelines offers Uganda the means to address environmental concerns while enhancing its economic and technological competitiveness. Thus, marrying innovation, inclusion of the local population, and sustainability, will make the country a model for sustainable digital transition in the region. To be successful, the approach needs all stakeholders involved, including government, private sectors, international partners, and local communities. The surge in demand for digital infrastructure opens Uganda up to several critical challenges: Environmental concerns: Data centres remain energy-intensive facilities that contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, hence the need to migrate to low-carbon infrastructure in order to meet climate commitments. Regional competition: While countries such as Kenya and South Africa have made considerable efforts to attract innovative technologies, Uganda has the opportunity to become a leader. By embracing clean, innovative technologies, Uganda will be able to leapfrog its competitors, establish itself as the market leader and set an example for green digital technologies in East Africa. Socio-economic concerns: The digital transition offers a unique opportunity to integrate communities by promoting green jobs and equitable economic benefits.​​

    Download the publication here: http://handle.itu.int/11.1002/pub/825e2000-en

     

    Pre-feasibility study for the development of inclusive ICT solutions for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in Uganda 

    The Pre-feasibility study for the development of inclusive ICT solutions for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) in Uganda report shares the results of a survey of existing learning centres for persons with disabilities in Uganda and considers the roll-out of an integrated national ICT system for such centres, with the view to enhancing digital access and inclusivity for persons with disabilities, in alignment with Uganda's broader digital transformation objectives. Thus key objectives of the study include: conducting a survey of learning centres for persons with disabilities across Uganda; performing a pre-feasibility analysis for an integrated national ICT system; developing technical specifications for model ICT-enabled learning centres; and providing budget estimates for proposed systems. The study involved surveying 57 ICT centres, including 20 primary schools, 30 secondary schools and seven community centres, and engaging stakeholders through interviews and focus group discussions to gather insights on existing challenges and opportunities. The assessment revealed significant gaps in ICT access for persons with disabilities, including limited infrastructure and resources at many learning centres, challenges in accessing assistive technologies and digital content tailored to diverse needs and insufficient training programmes to enhance digital skills among persons with disabilities.​

    Download the publication here: http://handle.itu.int/11.1002/pub/825e201e-en

     

    Boosting ICT technology development and commercialization. Preliminary study on the state of local ICT equipment manufacturing in Uganda 

    The Preliminary study on the state of local ICT equipment manufacturing in Uganda report represents an exploration of Uganda's potential to develop a dynamic and competitive local ICT equipment manufacturing sector. At its core, this study seeks to provide actionable insights and recommendations to foster technological self-reliance, drive economic diversification, and create meaningful employment opportunities. Uganda's ICT manufacturing sector is still in its infancy. The nation remains heavily reliant on imported components, which creates cost inefficiencies and limits competitiveness. However, national policies such as Vision 2040 have emphasized the sector's transformative potential. What is required is a cohesive strategy to translate these aspirations into measurable outcomes. Through this study, the gap is bridged by conducting an in-depth evaluation of the current ecosystem, consulting stakeholders, and benchmarking against regional peers like Kenya and Rwanda.​

    Download the publication here: http://handle.itu.int/11.1002/pub/825e2020-en​​

  • Pilot projects


  • Pilot projects were introduced as part of the project to demonstrate practical applications of the policy recommendations that had emerged. These pilots have served as proof-of-concept interventions to validate strategic priorities, test innovative solutions in real-world settings, and build local capacity through hands-on implementation. By focusing on targeted areas such as connectivity, digital skills, and service delivery, the pilots provided actionable insights for scaling up nationwide programs, ensuring that the strategy is both feasible and impactful. Four innovative pilot projects were successfully implemented. The two techpreneurship mentorship programmes supported 200 entrepreneurs across the country; a connectivity monitoring project engaged bodaboda/motorcycle drivers to map network coverage and quality in rural and mountainous areas; and an open data initiative enabled students and entrepreneurs to use open dataset and apply big data tools for research and innovation.


  • Innovating the Mapping of Mobile Internet Coverage in Rural/Remote Areas in Uganda Pilot Project

    This pilot project empowered boda boda drivers and focused on mapping mobile internet coverage in a rural/remote area of Uganda. The project served to test a cost-effective, innovative, independent, accurate, and reliable methodology for internet coverage mapping, to aid policy and decision-making and contribute to monitoring and evaluation of the related outcomes in the Digital Uganda Vision. Throughout its design and implementation the pilot enhanced the technical capacity amongst the Ministries and agencies involved on the collection and analysis of internet coverage data.

    Uganda Open Education Data Portal Pilot Project

    The pilot project developed a sustainable, centralized, open-access platform that integrates, curates, and publishes anonymized datasets from systems such as the Education Management Information System (EMIS) and the Academic Management Information System (ACMIS). These datasets support research, policy analysis, and strategic decision-making while ensuring compliance with Uganda's Data Protection and Privacy Act and international standards. 


    Techpreneur Skilling and Mentoring Pilot Project – Kampala Edition

    The six-week techpreneur skilling and mentorship pilot project fostered ICT entrepreneurship by providing training, mentorship, and resources to 80 aspiring tech entrepreneurs.

    Techpreneur Skilling and Mentoring Pilot Project – Arua Edition

    The Arua-based techpreneur skilling and mentorship pilot project provided 100 aspiring entrepreneurs in Uganda's northern region with digital skills and entrepreneur targeted training and mentorship.​