Lumumba calls for whole-of-country approach to drive Uganda’s digital transformation

What the report says

Nile Post reported that ICT Minister Justine Lumumba has urged Uganda to widen responsibility for digital transformation beyond government, calling for a “whole-of-country” effort that includes the private sector, innovators, academia, development partners and other non-state actors. She made the remarks at the State of Digital Economy (SODE) 2026, where she said the country should focus not only on connectivity but also on converting digital access into employment, investment and broader economic growth.

According to the report, Lumumba said government’s role remains important in setting policy and creating an enabling environment, but argued that private companies and innovators often move more quickly in developing practical solutions. She said collaboration could improve public service delivery and help produce digital products that respond to Ugandans’ needs. The minister also encouraged Uganda to compare its digital progress with leading global performers rather than only with countries at a similar stage of development.

Lumumba backed proposals to make smartphones and internet access more affordable, including through lower taxes on entry-level devices and connectivity, saying wider access would expand the user base and strengthen the digital market. She framed the digital economy as a productive sector deserving deliberate investment because of its potential to create jobs, support innovation and address national challenges.

The Nile Post report also noted her warning that digital progress depends on reliable electricity, especially for artificial intelligence, data centres and other infrastructure. She said Uganda must balance opportunities for young people on global digital platforms with preservation of national values, as the country seeks to move from expanding access to enabling citizens to build businesses and participate in wider markets.