Uganda’s pursuit of digital transformation has received a significant boost as the nation partners with China to expand internet access. The Minister for Information, Communication Technology, and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, confirmed this collaboration, emphasizing the government’s commitment to bridging the digital divide.
China, a global technology leader, has played a vital role in advancing internet infrastructure in Uganda. This partnership will focus on building essential infrastructure, providing training, and delivering services to ensure widespread internet accessibility across the country.
Dr. Baryomunsi highlighted the extensive efforts to connect both urban and rural areas in Uganda. Leveraging Chinese expertise and resources, the government is working to achieve comprehensive internet coverage by erecting essential telecommunication towers.
The formal agreement was signed on October 19 in Beijing during the China-Africa digital capacity-building cooperation forum. This marks a significant milestone in Uganda’s journey toward digital transformation and connectivity.
According to the Uganda Communication Commission’s 2022 Market Performance report, approximately 20 percent of Uganda’s population, equivalent to 10.9 million individuals, was connected to the internet as of June 2022. The government’s partnership with China seeks to increase this figure and extend internet services to underserved rural areas.
Dr. Baryomunsi emphasized that the collaboration will facilitate internet expansion in rural regions, thereby reducing the overall cost of internet services for Ugandan citizens.
In line with Uganda’s broader development goals, the initiative aims to facilitate the transition from a predominantly agrarian society to a modern one by 2040. This transformation extends to government departments, ministries, and agencies, fostering digital integration and enhancing services.
Mr. Jin Zhuanglong, the Chinese Minister of Industry and Information Technology, expressed the commitment of both nations to enhance policy exchanges, strengthen the China-Africa digital forum, and leverage their combined strengths to create a conducive business environment. This collaboration signifies a remarkable step forward in Uganda’s digital evolution.
