AI is an opportunity for those ready to adapt, says Joy Mwangi

What the report says

Nile Post reported that the third State of the Digital Economy conference opened at the Next Conference Centre with a message that Uganda’s digital agenda should move beyond internet access and focus more directly on jobs, enterprise growth and innovation. Joy Mwangi, Next Media’s Chief Marketing and Ventures Officer, said the country should judge digital transformation by the economic and social value it creates, not only by how many people are online.

The conference, organised by NextCom in partnership with the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance and other partners, is being held under the theme “Beyond Connectivity: Turning Access into Opportunity.” According to the report, the gathering has drawn government officials, technology firms, innovators, academics and development partners to discuss how Uganda can convert digital access into inclusive growth.

Mwangi outlined NextCom’s work as a digital-first communications agency, including brand design, audiovisual production, social media strategy, influencer marketing, analytics and research. She also pointed to the Next Creata Hub and the Next Creata Programme, implemented with the Mastercard Foundation, which she said is intended to train 3,300 young people each year in digital and content creation skills across 14 regions of Uganda.

On artificial intelligence, Mwangi urged organisations to treat AI as a productivity and innovation tool rather than simply a risk to jobs, arguing that readiness to use the technology will shape who benefits. The report said this year’s SODE discussions are expected to cover partnerships, practical digital skills, trusted digital services, affordable access and AI as Uganda seeks to turn connectivity into wider economic opportunity.