Stakeholders Warn Digital Divide Threatens Transformation

What the report says

Nile Post reported that technology stakeholders in Uganda have warned that gaps in internet access, digital skills and digital infrastructure are slowing the country’s digital transformation. The concerns were raised in Kampala on Monday during Internet Governance Week at the National ICT and Innovation Hub, where participants discussed internet governance and barriers to a more inclusive digital economy.

According to the report, Uganda Internet Governance Forum Convener Lillian Nalwoga said the country’s major challenges include low internet penetration, weak infrastructure, limited digital literacy among rural communities and older people, increasing cybersecurity risks, uneven uptake of e-government services and inconsistent application of digital regulations. Stakeholders said these issues limit the ability of citizens, businesses and public institutions to benefit from technology and digital public services.

The participants called for more investment to expand affordable and reliable connectivity, especially in underserved areas, and for digital literacy programmes targeting communities that are currently excluded. They also urged stronger public-private partnerships to support infrastructure rollout, innovation and skills development, while encouraging Uganda to take a more active role in international digital policy discussions.

The issue matters because digital access is increasingly tied to economic participation, service delivery, education, financial inclusion and government efficiency. The Nile Post report indicates that stakeholders see coordinated action by government, private companies, development partners and civil society as essential to building a safer and more predictable digital environment that can support investment and broader social and economic development.