Uganda: Uganda Urged to Turn Digital Connectivity Into Jobs and Economic Growth At State of the Digital Economy 2026

What the report says

AllAfrica, republishing a Nile Post report from Kampala, said Uganda’s State of the Digital Economy 2026 conference opened at Next Media Park with a call to move the country’s digital agenda from access toward measurable economic gains. The third edition of the annual forum, organised by NextCom, is being held under the theme “Beyond Connectivity: Turning Access into Opportunity” and brings together policymakers, regulators, innovators, private-sector leaders and content creators.

According to the report, Next Media Group Chief Executive Kin Kariisa told participants that Uganda has made major strides in connectivity but now needs to turn internet access into jobs, exportable services, entrepreneurship and wider public value. He said the forum, developed with the Uganda Communications Commission and other stakeholders, has evolved from earlier discussions on access and policy implementation to a focus on economic opportunity.

A key proposal highlighted was Next Media’s expansion of its NextCreata programme, including plans for creator hubs in 14 major cities. Kariisa said the initiative aims to train young people and create 1.5 million jobs over three years. He also urged policymakers to address device affordability, saying Uganda remains the only East African country charging import tax on mobile phones.

The report said Next Media Chief Marketing Officer Joy Mwangi stressed that connectivity must be matched with digital skills, including in content creation, influencer marketing and the responsible use of artificial intelligence. SODE 2026 is focusing on human capital, policy, infrastructure, AI and cybersecurity, with exhibitions, fintech and GovTech showcases, masterclasses and a youth hackathon. The discussions matter because Uganda’s digital policy debate is shifting from expanding networks to ensuring technology supports employment, innovation and inclusive growth.