NSSF says trust is key to unlocking digital transformation benefits

What the report says

Nile Post reports that Uganda’s National Social Security Fund has emphasized trust as a central requirement for the country to benefit from digital financial services and wider digital transformation. Speaking at the State of the Digital Economy 2026 forum, NSSF representative Fred Percy Kisa said technology can support financial inclusion only if citizens and savers have confidence in the platforms, institutions and services they use.

According to the report, Kisa argued that Uganda’s digital economy is now focused not just on connectivity, but on secure and useful services that create economic value. He said financial institutions need to build dependable, accessible products that give users more control and flexibility. As an example, he pointed to NSSF’s SmartLife Flexi savings plan, which the Fund says allows members to save and access money more flexibly.

The comments formed part of broader discussions at SODE 2026 about digital trust. Nile Post says other speakers, including digital rights and cybersecurity actors, also warned that people are unlikely to fully adopt online services unless they believe their personal data, funds and transactions are protected. This is especially important in financial services, where convenience alone may not be enough to drive sustained adoption.

The issue matters because Uganda is seeking to expand digital finance and deepen financial inclusion. The report frames NSSF’s message as part of a wider argument that innovation, connectivity and financial technology can open new opportunities, but their impact depends on strong safeguards, reliable institutions and public confidence.