Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-03-12 18:13:45
The Executive Director of the Uganda Communication Commission (UCC), Mr Nyombi Thembo, has expressed concern about the low penetration of smartphones in Uganda and how it is impacting the country’s digital transformation agenda. He mentioned that with only a 22 per cent smartphone penetration rate in Uganda, fully driving the digital agenda becomes challenging. However, he also noted that there has been an increase in data uptake, connections, and adoption, with 36 million sim cards in use.
Mr Nyombi made these remarks during the launch event of the official preparations for the 2024 Global Symposium for Regulators (GSR-24) in Kampala. He emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges posed by the low smartphone penetration to advance Uganda’s digital agenda effectively. The ICT Ministry, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), introduced the Digital Transformation Roadmap last year. This roadmap aims to strengthen the implementation of enabling policies and laws to accelerate Uganda’s digital revolution. It also provides a framework for a well-connected Uganda that can leverage various technologies for development.
Hosting the GSR-24 symposium demonstrates Uganda’s commitment to the work of the International Telecommunication Union, of which it is a member. State Minister for National Guidance, Mr Godfrey Kabbyanga, highlighted the government’s increased funding in the ICT sector to enhance connectivity and drive growth. He emphasized the importance of the government’s digital transformation program and ensuring the independence of the ICT regulator to drive progress in Uganda’s ICT sector.
The GSR is an annual event organized by the International Telecommunication Union, bringing together telecommunication and information communication technology regulators, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to exchange ideas on regulatory practices and policies. The GSR-24, scheduled to be hosted in Uganda from July 1 to 4, will attract over 700 participants from the ICT sector, including policymakers, regulators, industry representatives, academia, and international and regional organizations focused on digital development.
In conclusion, addressing the challenges posed by the low smartphone penetration rate in Uganda is crucial for driving the country’s digital transformation agenda forward. By increasing connectivity, implementing enabling policies, and collaborating with various stakeholders through events like the GSR-24, Uganda can harness the opportunities presented by digital technologies for socio-economic development.
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