Lumumba Calls for Digital Transformation as Govt Assesses Smart Village Project in Butaleja

What the report says

Government is reviewing a Smart Village pilot in Buhadyo, Butaleja District, as part of efforts to expand digital infrastructure and bring rural communities into the digital economy, according to Nile Post. The programme is being led by the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance in partnership with the National Information Technology Authority-Uganda (NITA-U).

Minister of ICT and National Guidance Justine Lumumba visited the site on Saturday with NITA-U’s executive director, local leaders and other officials to assess progress. During the visit, she urged wider use of technology in rural areas, arguing that digital services should not remain concentrated in cities and towns. Her comments framed the initiative as part of a broader push to narrow Uganda’s digital divide.

The article says the Smart Village Initiative is intended to improve access to government services, communication tools, education and business opportunities for rural residents. It is also meant to test how technology can support livelihoods and service delivery outside major urban centres.

NITA-U said working with local leaders and communities is important so the project reflects local needs. The Butaleja pilot is expected to offer practical lessons on what is required to roll out similar interventions elsewhere, including the challenges of extending digital services to underserved areas.