President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has advised Ugandans to use Information and Communications Technology (ICT) to bolster domestic consumption and exports while being cautious about promoting importation.
During his speech at the 2nd Annual National ICT Job Fair 2023 at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, President Museveni stressed the importance of using ICT to endorse the purchase of goods and services within Uganda and selling to other countries. He highlighted the concern that using ICT to promote importation could have detrimental effects on the nation’s economy.
The event, themed “Navigating the Digital Horizon” and organized by the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance in collaboration with Huawei Technologies Uganda, spans two days, from the 17th to the 18th of October 2023. Its primary purpose is to facilitate connections between employers in the ICT sector and skilled job seekers, fostering networking and collaboration opportunities among various stakeholders, including employers, job seekers, policymakers, and industry experts.
President Museveni acknowledged the significant role of ICT in enhancing work efficiency, speed, and traceability, supporting the idea of digitizing government processes. However, he cautioned against an excessive focus on electronic technology at the expense of basic human needs such as food, shelter, clothing, healthcare, and security, which are integral to economic development.
The President also stressed the importance of using ICT to support the country’s self-sufficiency in acquiring basic human needs, emphasizing that such needs are pivotal in transforming economies. He cited examples of various industries, including furniture and automobile manufacturing, as areas where Uganda has made progress in reducing its dependence on imports.
Various government officials, including Vice President Jessica Alupo, Minister of ICT and National Guidance Chris Baryomunsi, Minister of State for ICT Joyce Ssebugwawo, and Permanent Secretary Aminah Zawedde, expressed gratitude for President Museveni’s support and commitment to the ICT sector, highlighting its role in creating employment opportunities for Ugandans, particularly the youth.
The Managing Director of Huawei Uganda, Mr. Xie Qiuxiang, commended the Ugandan government for fostering a conducive business environment, including the ICT sector, that has led to the growth of local businesses and job opportunities for the youth.
Prof. William Bazeyo, Chairperson of the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) And Innovation Council, thanked the President and the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance for promoting BPO and innovation, which have opened avenues for youth employment in Uganda.
The event was attended by several other government officials, including the Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, the Minister of Public Service, and the Minister of State for Higher Education.
